A critical review of South Africa's current parole system
Bibliographic Data
| ID | 21497798 |
|---|---|
| Authors | Francois CM Louw (0000-0001-5493-5520, University of South Africa), Francois C M Louw (University of South Africa, corresponding author), Ephraim Kevin Sibanyoni (0000-0001-9168-4396, University of South Africa) |
| Year | 2026 |
| Publication date | 2026-01-14 |
| Open Access | Yes |
| Type | ARTICLE |
| Venue | Probation Journal (JOURNAL) |
| Journal identifiers | ISSN: 0264-5505 • E-ISSN: 1741-3079 |
| Publisher | SAGE Publications (PUBLISHER • US) |
| DOI | 10.1177/02645505251409681 |
| OpenAlex | W7124134555 |
| Language | EN |
| Citations received | 1 |
| References cited | 2 |
This article provides a critical review of South Africa's current parole system, focusing on persistent issues such as inconsistent decision-making, minimal victim participation and high recidivism rates among parolees. It reviews government reform efforts from 2008 to 2024, highlighting delays in legislative changes, leadership gaps within parole boards and declining public confidence. Drawing on official reports, media coverage and government briefings, it is argued that without urgent reforms, the parole system will remain ineffective in reintegrating offenders into society while maintaining public safety. Recommendations include a multi-disciplinary parole board, evidence-based decision-making, meaningful victim involvement and improved transparency through public parole hearings
Legislature · Public policy · Recidivism · Criminal Justice and Corrections Analysis · Legal Issues in South Africa · South African History and Culture
| Citations per year | 1 |
|---|---|
| Citation span | 2026 - 2026 (1) |
| Highly cited | No |