From Punitive to Rehabilitative: Transformation of Juvenile Justice through Evidence-Based Diversion Models in Indonesia, Malaysia and Vietnam
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.25217/jm.v10i2.6917Keywords:
ASEAN, Child Protection, Diversion, Juvenile Justice, Rehabilitation.Abstract
This comparative study analyzes the paradigm shift in juvenile justice from a punitive approach to a rehabilitative one through the implementation of evidence-based diversion models in Southeast Asia. Using a comparative-empirical method on the juvenile justice systems in three ASEAN countries (Indonesia, Malaysia, and Vietnam), this study identifies patterns of convergence and divergence in the adoption of diversion. Findings show that countries with the integration of local cultural values in diversion models can reduce recidivism, compared to conventional approaches. Key success factors include: harmonization of national legislation with international standards. This study proposes an ASEAN Integrative Diversion Framework (FDIA) that accommodates socio-legal diversity while maintaining minimum standards for child protection. Policy implications include the need for regional harmonization through the ASEAN Declaration on Restorative Justice for Children and the establishment of a peer review mechanism to ensure consistent implementation across the region.
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