A human rights-based approach to sex offender management: The key to effective public protection?

Abstract

This paper outlines recent ‘public protection’ legislation in the United States of America as a basis for considering possible outcomes when public concern and political pressures combine without due regard for efficacy and appropriate balance. It highlights concerns about the implications of policy measures developing in this way and questions whether a human-rights based approach should be applied in terms of public protection policy in order to develop more effective public protection.

Keywords:

• Sex offenders
• public protection
• human rights

Additional information

Notes on contributors

Marcus Erooga∗

∗Whilst the author is employed by NSPCC, and is currently Chair of NOTA, this paper is written in a personal capacity and does not represent the views or policies of either organisation