NCJ Number
218918
Date Published
October 2006
Length
17 pages
Annotation
This report covers proceedings of the meeting of the Intergovernmental Group of Experts on Lessons Learned from the United Nations Congresses on Crime Prevention and Criminal Justice, which was held in Bangkok (Thailand) from August 15-18, 2006.
Abstract
In its deliberations, the Group of Experts recognized that the scope of the agendas of the crime congresses had broadened considerably over the years to encompass a broad range of issues with high priority for crime prevention and criminal justice both nationally and internationally. The chairperson invited participants to discuss issues interactively in order to foster exchanges of views and experience. He viewed this as the best way to ensure a comprehensive review of lessons learned from previous crime congresses and develop a methodology for defining lessons for future congresses. The Group of Experts concluded that it is important to maintain the ability of congresses to address new and emerging trends and issues while preserving their ability to advance mainstream crime prevention and criminal justice issues. Toward this end, participants recommended that the preparation and implementation of future congresses focus on carefully selected and sharply focused issues. They also recommended that in selecting topics for a congress, consideration should be given to issues that are of concern to as many countries as possible from all regions. Further, there should be a balance between issues related to crime prevention and control and criminal justice. Consideration should also be given to issues likely to command consensus for the first time, as well as issues of political significance on which consensus has already been reached. In addition, congresses should consider emerging issues that do not have consensus but that warrant more discussion and information. Criteria were also recommended for the selection of workshop topics. Appended list of participants and a list of documents before the participants