Penal Populism Accross Nations: Illustrative Case Studies

Novaković, Marko (2024) Penal Populism Accross Nations: Illustrative Case Studies. In: IX International scientific thematic conference Penal populism and impact on the work of institutions. Institute of criminological and sociological research, Belgrade, pp. 115-127. ISBN 978-86-80756-74-5

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Abstract

The paper examines penal populism as a political phenomenon characterized by punitive measures that appeal to public fears rather than evidence-based policies. Through case studies of the Philippines, Nicaragua, and El Salvador, this analysis examines how penal populism is leveraged for political gains, using punitive measures to appeal to public sentiment rather than addressing the root causes of criminality or adopting evidence-based policy responses. In all three cases, the media play a significant role in amplifying public fear and shaping punitive policies, thereby promoting penal populism. This approach disproportionately impacts marginalized communities, exacerbating socio-economic inequalities through mass incarceration and harsh sentencing. By sidelining rehabilitative measures, it perpetuates cycles of poverty and crime. The paper contrasts this with countries like Finland and Germany, which resist penal populism through strong institutions and rehabilitation-focused justice. Ultimately, the paper critiques penal populism’s short-term political gains at the expense of human rights and social justice, calling for more balanced, evidence-based approaches.

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