Youth justice systems worldwide are facing a turning point. While some policies and general public opinions trend toward harsher punishments, research and practice highlight the value of long-term, differentiated and personalised approaches. This presentation, grounded in expert sessions, presentations, and feedback with direct insights from the Austrian Youth Custody Conference and the 5th World Congress on Justice with Children, explores the potential of small-scale, differentiated, and community-integrated detention houses as alternatives to traditional youth prisons. Drawing on stakeholder input from multiple countries and the Austrian context, we examine what works in youth custody and how positive youth development, criminological research, and staff experience can be harmonised to overcome systemic barriers. The presentation presents case discussions, youth perspectives, challenges, and practical examples to encourage strategic thinking around policy reform and national, regional, and local implementation. Participants will explore how community involvement, mentorship, and differentiated care contribute to integration, not isolation. Creating greater awareness of challenges and solutions for humane and effective youth justice.

Moderated by Sayed Mawismi Bin Sayed Mohamad Mustar, Senior Associate Social Development Officer, Department of Social Welfare, Malaysia

Rescaling Youth Detention Through Community Engagement (PID039)

Speakers

Eva Corn