Justice-Based Social Work Punishment: Reformulating Humanist Criminal Policy

Abstract

The growing global concern over prison overpopulation and the ineffectiveness of retributive punishment has led to a growing demand for more humane and justice-based alternatives. This article explores the concept of justice-based community service sentences as a form of criminal sanction that aligns with restorative and rehabilitative goals. Using a normative juridical approach and comparative legal analysis, this study proposes reforming criminal policy by incorporating community service as a viable and humanist alternative to punishment. The research findings show that justice-oriented social sanctions can encourage offender accountability, reduce recidivism, and improve social reintegration. These outcomes are primarily supported by legal clarity and institutional readiness, providing a solid foundation for the proposed reforms.