Recidivism in the Balkans: A Normative Approach to Trends and Variations

• In Event: Balkan Criminology Penology Panel - Special Panel Celebrating 25 Years of ESC

Abstract

Recidivism, a global phenomenon, presents a multifaceted challenge for researchers and policymakers alike. Yet, the interpretation of recidivism data demands cautious scrutiny. The variations observed cannot be simplistically attributed to cultural disparities but rather serve as indicators of the inherent complexities surrounding the very definition of recidivism. This presentation aims to delve into the nuanced interpretations of recidivism, shedding light on the absence of a universally accepted consensus regarding its conceptualisation, definition, and scope. For the purpose of terminological clarity, this presentation will shortly present the normative construction of recidivism and how the penological perspective adds to the (mis)understanding of recidivism. The presentation will focus on the research conducted on the phenomenology of recidivism in Balkan countries, employing a normative approach. The study aimed to determine the occurrence of recidivism in Balkan countries and to identify trends in the movement. The research utilised official statistical data from various sources, including the Croatian Bureau of Statistics, the Hungarian Central Statistical Office, the Republic of North Macedonia's State Statistical Office, the Statistical Office of the Slovak Republic, and Romania's Ministry of Justice. Presentation examines the difficulties of comparing recidivism rates internationally, highlighting the frequent validity issues in such comparisons.

Author

• Lea Feuerbach, Central European Academy; Balkan Criminology