Gender-Responsive Sentencing Practices in Southeast Asia - The Gap Between International Commitments and Domestic Realities (PID046)

2.30pm – 3pm EST, 20 February 2025 ‐ 30 mins

Parallel Workshops

An insightful session exploring Gender-Responsive Sentencing Practices in Southeast Asia: Bridging International Standards and Domestic Realities. This presentation will unveil findings from a recent study conducted in Cambodia, examining the critical gap between international commitments, such as CEDAW and the UN Bangkok Rules, and the realities of sentencing practices for women in Southeast Asia.
As many justice systems in the region undergo transition and development, the need for gender-responsive approaches becomes increasingly urgent. Despite legal frameworks advocating for gender-sensitive treatment and non-custodial measures, numerous women continue to face harsh custodial sentences for minor offenses, leading to family separation and exacerbating socio-economic challenges.
We will discuss the barriers preventing the full implementation of these international standards and highlight the necessity of explicit gender-responsive provisions within national laws. Comparative examples from Australia, Indonesia, and Singapore will enrich our understanding of diverse approaches to similar challenges, showcasing the importance of consistent implementation of gender-responsive practices during this period of judicial evolution.
This session will outline key policy recommendations aimed at fostering positive change, including judicial training, expanding rehabilitation programs, and adopting non-custodial measures for women with caregiving responsibilities.
Attendees will leave with actionable insights and strategies to advocate for meaningful reforms that align domestic practices with international standards. By participating, you will contribute to the vital conversation on supporting the dignity and rights of women in conflict with the law, helping shape equitable justice systems across the region.