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How do other countries approach criminal liability, and what can be learned from their experiences?

Dena Lygo

Well, criminal liability is definitely an interesting topic that has attracted the attention of many countries. In fact, different countries have different approaches when it comes to dealing with criminal liability. Some countries prefer severe punishments, while others choose rehabilitation programs. Therefore, the question of which approach is the most effective has been a long-lasting debate.

Germany, for instance, has a rather unique approach. According to data from the Federal Statistical Office, in 2019, the number of offenses committed in Germany decreased compared to 2018. One of the reasons for that is the mandatory rehabilitation programs that convicted individuals receive after serving their sentence. These programs aim at helping convicts to reintegrate into society and prevent further criminal behavior. Additionally, Germany provides an extensive support network for individuals involved in the criminal justice system, including mental health services.

In contrast, the United States is known for its punitive approach. According to the Bureau of Justice Statistics, the US has the highest incarceration rate in the world, with over 2.1 million people behind bars. Moreover, this number does not include the individuals who are on probation or parole. The approach tends to view the punishment as the most potent deterrent for criminal behavior, and therefore, harsh sentencing is often imposed. However, research shows that this approach fails to reduce crime significantly, and rehabilitation programs are likely to be more effective.

Scandinavian countries, on the other hand, have taken an entirely different approach towards criminal liability. Countries such as Denmark, Norway, and Sweden use a restorative justice system, which aims to repair the harm caused by the crime and works to reintegrate the offender into society. According to the European Journal of Criminology, Scandinavian countries have some of the lowest crime rates globally. Therefore, it is safe to say that the restoration process helps to prevent further criminal behavior.

Finally, Japan's criminal justice system is known for its efficiency. The conviction rate in Japan is 99%, and the country has a low crime rate. The system is harsh, with defendants often held in prolonged detention periods. However, Japan's approach has been criticized for failing to take into account the individual's rights, including the presumption of innocence.

In conclusion, I think it is essential to learn from the experiences of other countries when it comes to dealing with criminal liability. In my opinion, the common denominator in the countries that have achieved success in reducing crime is the emphasis on rehabilitation programs. Imposing extremely harsh sentences may seem like the immediate solution, but the reality is that it fails to address the underlying causes of criminal behavior. Therefore, I believe introducing rehabilitation programs, support networks, and restorative justice may be the most effective ways to approach criminal liability.