The Role of the Prosecution in Measuring Impunity Rates and Prioritization Strategies in Colombia

• In Event: Prosecution in the Making II: Prosecutors on their Job: Investigation and Decision Making

Abstract

This paper addresses the issue of criminal impunity from two perspectives. On one hand, it examines and critiques the measurement of impunity in Colombia, arguing that many traditional indicators have suffered from problems of transparency (as seen with case clearance rates) and strategic focus (for example, overlooking outcomes such as dismissals due to atypicality or case closures due to the defendant's death). On the other hand, the paper delves into a more substantive aspect of impunity by evaluating what the paradigm of successful investigation and prosecution should look like. It emphasizes the need to balance prioritization requirements with thorough investigations of critical violence phenomena in the Colombian context. Finally, it proposes a set of indicators aimed at achieving a more comprehensive and strategic vision of success in the investigation and prosecution of crimes, particularly violent ones.

Authors

• Juanita Duran, Laboratorio de Justicia y Política Criminal

• Miguel La Rota, Laboratorio de Justicia y Política Criminal

• Gina Cabarcas, Laboratorio de Justicia y Política Criminal