The Palgrave handbook of global rehabilitation in criminal justice By M. Vanstone, P. Priestley (Ed.), Cham, Switzerland: Palgrave Macmillan. 2022. pp. 722. £199.99 (hbk). £199.99 (pbk). ISBN: 9783031143748

Abstract

The Palgrave handbook of global rehabilitation in criminal justice, meticulously edited by Maurice Vanstone and Philip Priestley, stands as a pioneering and exhaustive examination of the diverse strategies employed worldwide to support individuals navigating the complexities of criminal justice. This exceptional compilation brings together a multitude of esteemed authors and insightful essays, offering an unparalleled window into the implementation of rehabilitation measures across 30 geographically distinct jurisdictions in seven continents. Vanstone and Priestley are the prefect editors for a handbook on this subject. Both are prominent figures in the field of criminal justice generally but penology and rehabilitation specifically. Following a career in probation, Vanstone has an exceptional and lengthy academic background exploring (among other things) rehabilitative practices in England and Wales. Priestley, likewise, is a notable film director and author exploring similar issues to Vanstone. Together they bring different trajectories but a united unique ability to compile this handbook.

The handbook has several key strengths. The first lies in its breadth of coverage. Through the contributions, readers are taken on a journey across continents, exploring the various rehabilitative measures implemented in diverse cultural, social and legal contexts. From innovative programmes to traditional practices, the handbook provides a rich tapestry of approaches that reflects the complexities of the global landscape. For example, there is a clear intent by the editors to be sensitive to the experiences of women and minority groups as well as cover the more theoretical underpinnings of rehabilitation in countries that have traditionally received less attention in academic historiographies. An example of such is in the first chapter on the evolution of rehabilitation in Argentina where the author, a female judge, ensures that she includes the responses to women, LGBTQ groups and vulnerable people. Another example is the discussion of rehabilitation in China – a ‘risk society’ (p.89) – in Chapter 5. Although not intended by the editors to be ‘a comparative study’ (p.1), there are as many common threads running through the chapters as there are differences. The differences may be expected as each chapter relates to a specific jurisdiction and has its own focus. However, the common threads that surface include, among others, how populism and a rising punitiveness are present in many contrasting political conditions.

Another key strength is the mixture of contributors to the collection. All are notable in their respective fields and those fields range from, inter alia, criminology, criminal justice, social work, social and behavioural sciences, psychology and sociology. In addition, the mix of contributors include early career academics, established academics, those with professional experience, and those with both professional experience and an academic background. All contributors have immense experience and knowledge in their respective fields and are well-placed to make an important contribution to the handbook. Many with professional experience are engaged in rehabilitative programmes or lead correctional services within the jurisdictions on which they write, bestowing credibility and depth to their insights. Thus, the handbook's interdisciplinary approach enriches the discourse around penal systems and rehabilitative practices by drawing upon insights from a range of disciplines and practices. By bringing together diverse perspectives, Vanstone and Priestley have created a holistic framework that facilitates a deeper understanding of the complex dynamics at play.

A further key strength is that the handbook goes beyond mere description, offering critical analyses and discussions on the effectiveness, challenges and ethical considerations surrounding rehabilitation efforts. The handbook is dedicated to the two volunteers on a rehabilitative programme who were fatally stabbed in November 2019 by a participant of the rehabilitative programme. This nuanced, timely, and apposite examination encourages readers to interrogate prevailing assumptions and engage in meaningful dialogue about the future direction of criminal justice reform. For example, in Herzog-Evans's characterisation of France's merger of probation and prison as a form of McDonaldisation, in the face of a worsening punitive political landscape, she suggests the future of France's penal polices must lie in ‘desistance friendly’ frontline practitioners and third sector who have managed to create an ‘oasis in the desert’ (p.194). This forward-facing feature is echoed in Gilchrist's chapter on rehabilitation in Scotland where the ‘discourse of rehabilitation is prompting Scotland to consider approaches to punishment that are more meaningful, efficient, and effective’ (p.521). The editors specifically asked contributors for their thoughts about the future of rehabilitation in criminal justice in the jurisdiction on which they were writing. Juxtaposed with the discussion of the history and current picture of rehabilitation, this discussion on the future added a (generally) optimistic feel to each chapter.

Last but not least, the final key strength is the handbook's readability and accessibility. The handbook strikes a balance between academic rigour and practical relevance. While it is undoubtedly a scholarly work, the clear and engaging writing styles in the different chapters ensure that it remains accessible to a wide audience, including students, researchers, practitioners and policymakers. Although the price of the book may be prohibitive for some, it is likely that university libraries, probation offices, court houses, and local and central government offices across the world will shortly all be housing this handbook either in hardcopy or as an ebook.

As strong an edited collection as this, with such important strengths and timely publication, still has a couple of minor weaknesses, which both lie in its structure. With 39 chapters, numbering them would have been preferable, for reference purposes if nothing else. In addition, along with the numbering of chapters, the organisation of the chapters in alphabetical order of countries misses the opportunity to group the chapters into thematic sections which readers may have found useful.

In conclusion, The Palgrave handbook of global rehabilitation in criminal justice is a seminal work that makes a significant contribution specifically to the field of rehabilitation and more generally to the field of criminal justice. Its comprehensive coverage, critical analyses, and interdisciplinary approach make it essential reading for anyone interested in understanding and improving rehabilitative practices within criminal justice in any jurisdiction. It is a unique handbook that will be an invaluable resource for both those in academia interested in criminal justice and those in practice who support people on the journey through rehabilitative systems. Both will benefit from the diverse discussions of a variety of rehabilitative systems in the handbook which provided a deep understanding of the interconnected trends, policies, and practices prevalent in penal and rehabilitative systems globally. Readers will find immense value in exploring the myriad rehabilitative approaches discussed within the handbook, gaining profound insights that transcend geographical boundaries. Essential and highly recommended reading for anyone interested in penal policy, restorative justice, and the dissemination of knowledge within the realm of criminal justice, corrections, and penology, this handbook serves as a beacon of expertise and innovation in the field.