Citizen security and public policies for crime prevention: a systematic review
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.15665/encuent.v23i02.3764Keywords:
public policy, citizen security, urban violence, crime prevention, governance.Abstract
A systematic review of the literature on public policies for citizen security and crime prevention was conducted with the objective of identifying the predominant trends, patterns, and approaches in this field. Emerging in the post–Cold War context as a response to militarized security models, the concept of citizen security has evolved into strategies that prioritize the protection of human rights and people’s well-being in the face of urban violence, evidencing a clear transformation in both academic paradigms and public policy practices. Utilizing a rigorous methodology based on PRISMA guidelines, 1,994 records were retrieved from international databases, of which 196 articles met the inclusion criteria. Bibliometric indicators revealed an initially marginal performance during the period 1987–2000, followed by modest growth between 2001 and 2008, and a notable increase starting in 2009, as evidenced by publication peaks between 2012 and 2013. This growth is associated with shifts in political agendas and the expansion of scientific infrastructure. The review also highlights the geographic diversity of academic production, with developed countries such as the United Kingdom and the United States leading in publication volume, while research from Latin America contributes relevant perspectives on local issues. Overall, the study underscores the transition from traditionally punitive approaches to comprehensive and participatory strategies, while simultaneously providing critical insights for designing more effective public policies adapted to heterogeneous contexts.
Keywords: public policy, citizen security, urban violence, crime prevention, governance.
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