Modules

The project consists of three main components: (1) a socio-historical study of Finland's carceral reductionist model; (2) participatory mechanisms to analyze the carceral landscape in the French-Speaking part of Switzerland - characterized by high incarceration rates and chronic overcrowding - with the goal of proposing counter-models inspired by "degrowth"; and (3) global mapping of alternatives to criminal justice and over-incarceration, with the creation of an online database and an interactive map.
 

Module 1

Socio-Historical Study of Carceral Reductionism in Finland

This module focuses on Finland's penal and carceral system, which underwent a remarkable "anti-punitive turn" initiated in the 1960s. Given the extent and success of the measures taken, including a low recidivism rate and community safety, Finland stands out as the most promising model for reducing reliance on imprisonment worldwide.

The research objective of this module is to comprehend the socio-historical conditions leading to the emergence of the Finnish model. To achieve this goal, we will reconstruct its stages and key actors, trace transnational influences, and analyze its materiality (territorial anchoring, architectural specifics, and usage of carceral spaces). Rooted in a perspective of political and cultural geography open to transdisciplinarity, the study will primarily rely on ethnographic methods (interviews, observations, and documentary research). The Finnish case is intended to serve as inspiration and as a model for Module 2.

 

Module 2

A Collaborative Space in the French-Speaking part of Switzerland for "Implementing Degrowth"

This module aims to transform the French-Speaking part of Switzerland into a laboratory for degrowth. Switzerland has a relatively low average incarceration rate on a national level (just over 70 detainees per 100,000 inhabitants compared to 140 globally, according to the World Prison Brief). These figures, however, can be deceiving since they reflect a moderate incarceration rate in German-speaking Switzerland, while the French-Speaking part of Switzerland is more punitive. The incarceration rate is approximately 1.6 times higher in the French-speaking region of Switzerland, especially in the cantons of Geneva and Vaud.

This research component is based on a collaborative approach involving experts, judicial practitioners, representatives of civil society, and individuals affected by incarceration. Two mechanisms will be established to understand the causes and consequences of over-incarceration in the French-Speaking part of Switzerland and collectively develop proposals: a " Laboratory on Carceral Degrowth" bringing together judges, prosecutors, politicians, and associations, and a focus group with formerly incarcerated individuals and their families.

 

Module 3

A Global Map of Carceral Degrowth Initiatives and Non-Punitive Justice Alternatives

The third module aims to create a database cataloging diverse global initiatives of carceral reductionism and experiences based on non-punitive approaches to justice. This database will serve as the foundation for an interactive map hosted on the University of Geneva's website. It will be freely accessible to French and English researchers, experts, journalists, association members, students, as well as the general public.