Marginalised Populations in Youth Justice Systems

Dear Colleagues,

It is perhaps timely, especially post-pandemic and during a time of significant political, economic and social change, that an opportunity is afforded for the bringing together of research which explores the ways in which youth justice systems treat and/or impact upon children in marginalized populations. The term ‘marginalised populations’ is used broadly in this Special Edition and could embrace those, for instance, from differing ethnic, religious, economic, geographical or ‘settled/non-settled’ populations.

Authors from a range of disciplines are invited to contribute to this Special Edition. Content will include (but is not limited to):

• Research which critically considers the nature of ‘marginalised populations’ and what such a label may mean to a child who is in/or considered to be in a marginalized population
• Enquiry exploring not just prevalent Western constructions of ‘justice’ and ‘marginalisation’, but also global perspectives
• Analyses of the ways in which states, using their authority to regulate youth justice systems, may create social and/or hidden harms for children in marginalised populations
• Critical considerations of legal and social policy frameworks (reflections on child or human rights-related facets of frameworks would be welcomed) which exist in differing jurisdictions and the moral, sociological and criminological implications associated with the ways that these operate in relation to marginalized populations
• What research says concerning gaps in law, policy and service provision for children (including their ability to be heard and influence system change) and the potential for system reform to better support those who are members of/considered to be part of marginalised populations

Those who wish to be considered for inclusion in this Special Edition should send extended abstracts to the lead Guest Editor, Dr Anthony Charles ([email protected]) by 15th October 2024. If accepted, final papers for the Special Edition will be required by 30th April 2025.

Dr. Anthony Charles
Dr. Tracy Kirk
Dr. Helen Hodges
Dr. Joseph Janes
Dr. Aaron Brown
Guest Editors

Manuscript Submission Information

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• youth justice
• marginalisation
• social policy
• poverty
• children’s rights
• social harm
• law reform
• UNCRC
• children
• children’s voices