Theoretical foundations of crime prevention in modern prevention and combating policies: problems and perspectives

URL: https://dspace.academy.police.md/theoretical-foundations-of-crime-prevention-in-modern-prevention-and-combating-policies-problems-and-perspectives/

Data: 2026

The article analyzes the theoretical foundations of crime prevention within modern criminal policy. It highlights prevention as a key component of penal policy, alongside sanctions and reintegration measures, as reflected in European recommendations, including those of the Council of Europe. Prevention is understood both in a legal-penal sense (general and special prevention through sanctions) and in a sociological-criminological sense (addressing causes of crime). The study emphasizes three dimensions of criminal policy in the Republic of Moldova: legislation and sanctions, specialized prevention institutions, and societal reaction to crime. It also discusses limitations of preventive policies, such as the impossibility of fully eliminating crime, difficulties in evaluating results, high costs, and potential restrictions on individual freedoms. The work further examines general and special prevention, social and situational prevention, juvenile delinquency policies, and European standards. It underlines the importance of proportionality, rehabilitation, and community involvement in crime prevention strategies. Finally, it concludes that modern criminal law balances social defense with individual rights, focusing on reducing crime through integrated, evidence-based and cooperative approaches.