Reform · Initiatives
Reform initiatives
Concrete laws, programmes, and pilots that have changed (or attempted to change) how a country incarcerates. Each is editorial — we cite primary sources where possible.
All (2)decarcerationalternativesrehabilitationabolitionconditionsjuvenilesentencingreentrypre trial detentionother
- Child Justice Act diversionactive2010–ongoing
South Africa · juvenile
South Africa's Child Justice Act 2008 (in force 2010) created a comprehensive diversion framework for children in conflict with the law, prioritising restorative justice processes, family group conferences, and community service over detention.
- Family Group Conferences for youth offendingactive1989–ongoing
New Zealand · juvenile
Since 1989, most youth justice cases in New Zealand have been diverted from court to Family Group Conferences — facilitated meetings of the young person, family, victim, and police that produce an agreed plan including reparation, apology, and community work.