PWG - Meaningful And Evidence-Based Justice Reform: Balancing The Potential And Pitfalls Of Detention Houses Through A Holistic Approach

• In Event: PWG - Rethinking punishment: Alternatives to traditional incarceration models

Abstract

Detention houses — small-scale, differentiated and community-integrated facilities — are increasingly recognized to be beneficial in executing deprivation of liberty over large prison institutions. Recent policy developments, including recommendations by the Council of the EU and a UN Human Rights Council resolution, reflect this shift. However, detention houses remain an underrepresented practice in research, statistical frameworks such as the SPACE reports, for monitoring bodies and in prison systems more broadly. This lack of visibility has significant implications for policy, practice, and the opportunity to spark an evidence-based reform of detention and justice.

This presentation will explore the definitional challenges surrounding detention houses and their impact on research, evidence-based policymaking and thus successful implementation. Without clear definitions and consistent data collection, the risk arises that these facilities either remain overlooked or, conversely, contribute to unintended net-widening rather than replacing prison capacity. To fully recognize the benefits of detention houses, a deeper understanding is needed of the broader societal context (including but not limited to social, economic, cultural or political forces structurally restricting access to the labour market, housing, education and (mental) health services).

This is especially pertinent when looking to international good practices for inspiration. Much like with large prison institutions, detention houses cannot simply be exported and be expected to function successfully, in another jurisdiction, another political economy and culture. However, their potential lies in the flexibility of adapting to the penal and societal landscape, creating an environment in which the root causes of injustice - inflicted by individuals and society - can be addressed more appropriately. In order to achieve this meaningful justice reform, it is imperative that detention houses be fully recognized in legal, academic and policy frameworks.

Author

• Noa Shoshan, RESCALED