Angela A. Allen-Bell
This presentation takes issue with the notion of reforming a criminal justice system when the problems are systemic in nature. As an alternative to “reforming” criminal justice systems that fail, this presentation advocates for “transforming” them. This presentation will explain why reforms fall short in instances where systemic shortcomings plague a system, what transitional justice (TJ) is and why this internationally recognized approach to justice is worth considering when thinking of addressing criminal justice system failures. This presentation, though it focuses on the criminal justice system, has broader implications. The advocated transformation method extends to other systems, such as healthcare systems, educational system, etc. This presentation will explain how and why that is. It will also explain how and why this usage of TJ can work when there is political transition and where, as in the case of the United States, a stable democracy exists.
