Determinants of youth crime in low-income and middle-income countries

The highest rates of serious crime and violence are found among young people in low-income and middle-income countries (LMICs). In Latin America, the Caribbean, and sub-Saharan Africa, homicide rates far exceed the global average, 1 UNODCGlobal study on homicide 2019. Homicide: extent, patterns, trends and criminal justice response. United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime, Vienna2019https://www.unodc.org/documents/data-and-analysis/gsh/Booklet2.pdf Google Scholar and in many countries homicide is the principal cause of death among young people. To attain Sustainable Development Goal 16 of major reductions in violence and improved rule of law, focus is needed on those regions where crime represents such a major social, health, and criminal justice problem. We consider herein some key health issues related to youth crime in LMICs, particularly those that might be targeted in early prevention efforts. Health determinants of adolescent criminalisationSeveral conditions related to health and development in adolescence can increase the risk that a young person will be exposed to the criminal justice system. Such determinants include neurodevelopmental disability, poor mental health, trauma, and experiences of maltreatment. Furthermore, the risk of exposure to the criminal justice system seems to be amplified by social marginalisation and inequality, such that young people are made susceptible to criminal behaviour and criminalisation by a combination of health difficulties and social disadvantages. Full-Text PDF Ensuring the rights of children with neurodevelopmental disabilities within child justice systemsA recent UN general comment on criminal justice systems includes guidance to state parties regarding the implementation of the Convention on the Rights of the Child for children with developmental delays or neurodevelopmental disorders or disabilities. This guidance asserts that these children “should not be in the child justice system at all”, but when present “should be individually assessed” to enable appropriate safeguards and accommodations to ensure the protection of their rights without discrimination. Full-Text PDF