NCJ Number
109648
Date Published
1987
Length
264 pages
Annotation
Three surveys (1976, 1982, and 1986) sponsored by the United Nations Social Defence Research Institute solicited the opinions of criminal justice experts in developing countries regarding crime, activities and problems of the criminal justice system, and forms of international technical cooperation.
Abstract
The 1976 survey covered 17 countries (5 African, 8 Asian, and 4 Latin American), and the 1982 sample consisted of 35 countries (12 African, 11 Asian, 7 Arabian, and 5 Latin American). The 1986 survey encompassed 42 countries (13 African, 9 Asian, 13 Latin American, and 7 from the Arab states). Generally, the crime patterns in the developing countries did not significantly change over the 10 years of the surveys. Juvenile delinquency, some property crimes, and some forms of violent crime are of stable and high concern. Over the years there has been an increasing concern with urban criminality, drug-related offenses, and economic crime. In most of the countries, the police and the prison system are considered the most important crime-control agencies. The importance of criminal justice information systems is emphasized. The developing countries highlight the importance of international cooperation in crime prevention and crime control. The exchange of knowledge and research among countries is given high priority. 86 tables, 37 graphs, and an appended 1986 survey questionnaire.