Can prison reform make South Africa safer? 
 

Author: 

L Muntingh
 

Summary:

This book review of Behind Prison Walls: Unlocking a Safer South Africa, by Edwin Cameron, Rebecca Gore and Sohela Surajpal, examines a timely and accessible contribution to South Africa's debates on crime, punishment and prison reform. The book review highlights the book’s analysis of the historical roots of imprisonment, the consequences of overcrowding, mandatory minimum sentencing, weak accountability and the limitations of prison oversight, while commending its evidence-based approach and broad appeal. The book’s greatest contribution lies in demonstrating that prisons are central indicators of constitutional governance, accountability and the rule of law, making a compelling case that meaningful prison reform is essential to a safer and more just South Africa.


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