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Crime Prevention in France

NCJ Number
120536
Journal
Canadian Journal of Criminology Volume: 31 Issue: 4 Dated: (October 1989) Pages: 527-538
Author(s)
M King
Date Published
1989
Length
12 pages
Annotation
This article describes and traces the evolution of the French crime prevention program and explains how it operates in preventing various forms of delinquency and antisocial behavior, using examples from the cities of Lille and Paris.
Abstract
Two reports published in 1982 identified the importance of improving the physical and social environment of major cities. Particularly targeted were depressed neighborhoods with high immigrant populations, poor schools, high unemployment, and inadequate housing. The reports recommended a multiagency approach that would combine social measures with situational and control measures. Stemming from the reports, crime prevention councils began operating in June 1983. They consist of three tiers: a central government tier that funds projects, a regional tier that is primarily advisory, and a local tier that implements programs. A focus of the crime prevention efforts has been the involvement of youth in sport and recreational activities. This has included the gradual involvement of marginalized and ethnic minority groups in main-stream social and sporting activities. Evaluations associated with crime prevention efforts in Paris and Lille suggest they have been effective in reducing juvenile crime. One lesson for the United Kingdom is the apparent effectiveness of the partnership between local and central governments and the voluntary sector. 4 references.