The causes of reoffending in Romania

• In Event: Crime prevention, reoffending and organized crime

Abstract

As part of the SECURE project, funded through the Norwegian Financial Mechanism 2014-2021 under the Justice Programme, groundbreaking research has been conducted on the causes of reoffending in Romania, employing a unique multidisciplinary approach. While my role in this project primarily involved conducting legal analyses, I would like to shift the focus to the criminological aspects, which are equally vital to understanding the complexities of reoffending.
The study examined the factors contributing to reoffending from both conceptual and empirical viewpoints, utilizing the established Risk-Need-Responsivity (RNR) Model and a comprehensive dataset. It involved a national survey of 1,000 reoffenders and 300 first-time offenders, along with a representative sample of 1,023 individuals from the general population. This was complemented by focus groups and interviews with stakeholders, including current and former prisoners, employers, and social service providers.
The research found that a dysfunctional family background is the most significant predictor of reoffending, illustrated by factors such as parental criminal records and substance abuse issues. A considerable portion of reoffenders were school dropouts, highlighting the critical role of education in preventing recidivism. Additionally, age at first offense was identified as a key factor, with many individuals encountering legal issues during their teenage years.
These findings highlight the need to tackle family dynamics, improve educational opportunities, and shift societal perceptions to effectively reduce reoffending in Romania. A comprehensive approach—incorporating family support, educational programs, and community involvement—is vital not only in Romania but globally, to mitigate the risk of recidivism.

Author

• Ioana Curt, Faculty of Law, Babeș-Bolyai University, Cluj-Napoca, Romania