Critical criminology and the processes of criminalization in Latin America

Abstract

The objective of the article was to examine the postulates of critical criminology and criminalization processes in Latin America. The research is of a documentary and bibliographic nature, since it is an orderly review of theories and concepts expressed by experts, with the application of the analytical method, since the aim was to understand two fundamental variables: critical criminology and criminalization processes in Latin America. The technique used in the process was content analysis. The approach that identifies critical criminology is interesting among Latin American countries, whose reality demands a reflection on issues related to inequality, criminal control of the poor and the convenient use of the penal system. It is concluded that an alternative criminal policy is required that goes beyond the humanitarian perspective, and includes social reforms and the involvement of all sectors of society, beyond the capitalist scheme; attenuate the penal system in terms of penalties; overcome the prison vision and propose alternative means of justice with the presence of integral reparation in favor of the victims and, finally, sponsor processes of cultural and ideological paradigm shifts through the participation of public opinion.