We are excited to announce that our esteemed member, Hadassa Noorda from the University of Amsterdam, has co-authored an insightful paper with Virginia Mantouvalou from University College London. Their paper, titled “Non-Custodial Sentences and Human Rights,” is forthcoming in the European Human Rights Law Review (2024) and has been posted on SSRN.

What is the paper about?

The use of non-custodial sentences, which allow offenders to remain in the community, is often seen as a progressive step in criminal justice. These measures, such as electronic monitoring and unpaid work requirements, avoid the severe restrictions of imprisonment. However, Noorda and Mantouvalou’s analysis suggests that these sentences can still raise significant concerns, placing them on a continuum with imprisonment.

Their paper delves into the implications of electronic tagging and unpaid work, highlighting how these practices can severely restrict freedom, result in a loss of rights, and hinder societal reintegration. In light of these issues, the authors identify crucial principles in human rights law that should govern the application of community sentences.

Significance of the research

This paper addresses a critical area in criminal justice, shedding light on the complexities and potential human rights violations associated with non-custodial sentences. As the criminal justice system evolves, it is essential to ensure that alternative sentencing measures do not infringe on fundamental human rights. Noorda and Mantouvalou’s work contributes valuable insights to this ongoing discussion, emphasizing the need for careful consideration of the human rights implications of community-based sentences.

We encourage you to read the full paper on SSRN to explore the detailed analysis and findings by Hadassa Noorda and Virginia Mantouvalou. Their work is a significant contribution to the field of criminal justice and human rights law.