A Critical Analysis of the Living Conditions of Female Offenders Incarcerated in South African Correctional Centres

Abstract

The past few years have seen a rise in both the number and proportion of incarcerated women in South Africa. Even though the rate of incarceration for women continues to be far lower than for men, the number of women in correctional facilities is growing. Hence the aim of this paper is to critically analyse the living conditions of female offenders who are incarcerated in South African correctional centres. This critical analysis was done by means of qualitative document analysis. This paper traverses, synthesises, and analyses empirical studies as well as other relevant academic and policy literature on women’s incarceration in South Africa to suggest viable strategies and solutions that can be adopted to ensure good practises and address the identified challenges that are associated with the incarceration of women. Furthermore, the paper highlights various adversities that women in correctional facilities face, such as health issues and rehabilitation challenges, as well as the impact that development and care programmes have on them.