Involving people with lived experience in criminal justice reform

There is increasing recognition of the value that people with lived experience (PWLE) of criminal justice systems bring to reform efforts. Whether as a suspect or a defendant in a criminal case, or someone deprived of their liberty or under a community-based sentence, people with lived experience provide insights and expertise that other stakeholders do not have. They are uniquely placed to develop and advocate for more effective or alternative approaches.

 

This ten-point plan draws on Penal Reform International’s (PRI) work with people with lived experience, including in Armenia, Indonesia and Uganda, and is based on the active involvement of people with lived experience. It has been enriched by people with lived experiences across these countries. It has also drawn on the expertise and valuable resources and studies from other organisations working with people affected directly by justice systems. PRI is committed to promoting practical knowledge and lived experience including through its Experts by Experience Group. Its Charter is an evolving document reflecting our aim to improve and learn. Likewise, our Global Group is being developed in a gradual and participatory manner.2 It is important that work with people with lived experience includes those living in fragile and conflict affected settings (FCAS). This allows expertise on and understanding how conflict and fragility affect criminal justice systems, and how best to protect human rights, including to rebuild systems following conflict and disaster.

 

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