The Journey of Older Prisoners Through Prison, Parole, Release and beyond.

Session Submission Type: Roundtable

Abstract

The panel explores the multifaceted journeys of older prisoners as they navigate incarceration, parole, release, and life beyond the prison gates. Focusing on themes such as mercy, justice, and vulnerability, it examines how aging shapes the experiences of those entangled in the penal system across various jurisdictions and cultural contexts. From the difficulties of incarceration in old age to the ethical questions surrounding the release of those nearing the end of life, and the enduring effects of institutionalization. the discussion underscores the collision between systems of punishment and principles of humanity and compassion for older prisoners.

Contributions will consider how different countries’ policies and practices respond to these challenges. The comparative perspectives will shed light on variations in penal cultures, revealing how older prisoners are treated in places such as the US, the United Kingdom, Israel, Belgium and France. These accounts will deepen our understanding of how older prisoners’ journeys challenge traditional notions of punishment and reintegration. In fine, the panel overall addresses the shifting meanings of justice for this population and other vulnerable groups.

Subtopic

• Topic 5: Social Control and Criminal Justice / Imprisonment, Prisons, Prison Life and Effects of Imprisonment (Prisons WG)

Chair

• Netanel Dagan, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem

Discussant

• Marion Vannier, VANNIER

Individual Presentations

• Old prisoners in the US - Christopher Seeds, University of California Irvine

• Old prisoners in the UK - Helen Gair, University of Manchester

• Old prisoners in France - Daniel Danglades, French Minisitry of Justice - Prison and probation services