Politics Debate Club

Raphaela Ihuoma writes:

On Wednesday our weekly Politics Debate Club came together and discussed whether juveniles should be tried as adults for serious crimes and also whether ex-criminals can reform and reintegrate back into society. Raphaela introduced the motion in a neutral way and the group discussed the following points and issues:

  • Are ex-criminals able to reintegrate back into society after committing such serious or heinous crimes? If so, how?
  • Should they get a second chance? Should society forgive them?
  • Is it the government’s duty to provide work and reintegrate former convicts so they can be part of society, pay tax and pay their way?
  • The UK case of Jamie Bulger, Jon Venables and Robert Thompson was discussed. Some asked whether prison is the best way to deal with juvenile ‘criminals’? Or whether justice should be about retribution or reformation?