Theoretical and Practical Challenges to Stop Recidivism Among Juveniles: Three Cases Studies of Male Juveniles in Karachi, Pakistan

Abstract

In Pakistan, research (within academia and outside of it) lacks discussion and analysis of the policy, legal, administrative, institutional issues, challenges and barriers in addressing recidivism among juveniles. Therefore, this article’s primary aim is to understand the different factors that prevent children from recidivism; or instead, they contribute to juveniles’ developing tendency to re-offend. Three children between 15 to 18 years of age were interviewed at the superintendent of the Youthful Offender Industrial School (YOIS) in Karachi; also, an interview was conducted with the Director Reclamation and Probation, Sindh. The findings reveal that partial legal and institutional provisions and arrangements exist to address recidivism. However, these provisions are not implemented to stop children from re-offending. The analysis also shows that detention exists, but they did not have rehabilitation programmes, whereas community-based rehabilitation did not exist. Instead, these places (institutions and communities) educate children on how the crimes are being committed. The study’s findings suggest serious policy measures to deal with recidivism among male juveniles through diverse programmes and training and sensitisation of the police and judicial officials and the community members.