The Global Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic on Institutional and Community Corrections

The authors of the chapters included in this volume provide preliminary answers to questions such as how extensive were COVID-19 outbreaks in prisons, jails, and community corrections systems globally, which regions and countries reported the largest outbreaks, how did governments initially respond to COVID-19 outbreaks in their corrections systems, and did the mitigation strategies used in each country reduce the spread of the infection. The book includes three chapters examining the global impact of the COVID-19 outbreaks, six regional overviews, and 27 country-specific reviews, including reviews targeting 21 of the 50 largest prison systems globally.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 584 pages
Publication date: 25 September 2023
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

The authors of the chapters included in this volume provide comprehensive insights into the extent of COVID-19 outbreaks in prisons, jails, and community corrections systems across the globe. They shed light on which regions and countries experienced the largest outbreaks, as well as the underlying factors that contributed to these hotspots.

In most countries, prisons and jails have been identified as key drivers of the spread of COVID-19. This is due to several factors, including the close proximity of inmates, limited access to healthcare and sanitation facilities, and the high-risk behaviors prevalent within these institutions.

Governments initially responded to the outbreaks in their corrections systems with a range of strategies. These included measures such as lockdowns, quarantines, and increased testing and screening. However, the effectiveness of these strategies varied widely across different countries and regions.

Some mitigation strategies used in correctional facilities were found to reduce the spread of the infection, while others had adverse effects on public health and public safety. For example, lockdowns can lead to isolation and depression, which can have negative mental health consequences for inmates.

The long-term impact of the varied short-term mitigation strategies implemented by governments on corrections policies and practices remains to be seen. While some changes may be temporary, others may lead to lasting reforms in the way corrections systems operate.

This book offers a valuable resource for researchers, policymakers, practitioners, and the general public interested in understanding the global impact of COVID-19 on corrections systems. It includes three chapters examining the global impact of the outbreaks, six regional overviews, and 27 country-specific reviews, covering 21 of the 50 largest prison systems globally. The chapters were originally published as a special issue of the journal Victims & Offenders, making it a comprehensive and authoritative source of information on this critical topic.

Weight: 1114g
Dimension: 178 x 255 x 35 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781032038964