Description: Electronic monitoring (EM) of juvenile offenders has become a topical issue within the Flemish youth justice system following recent legislative amendments and the implementation of a pilot project in 2024. Although EM is often presented as an alternative to placement in a community institution, several questions and critical concerns remain regarding the implementation of this measure. In particular, empirical research on the implementation and lived experiences of EM remains lacking. Moreover, the perspectives of the key stakeholders involved—namely, young people themselves, their caregivers, and professionals working with EM—are largely absent from the existing literature. This stands in contrast to the fundamental principle that youth justice interventions should be grounded in scientific evidence.
This study aims to develop an understanding of how EM is implemented and experienced within the Flemish context. Central to the study is the question of how the measure is experienced and perceived by (1) minors who have been subjected to EM, (2) their caregivers, and (3) the professionals involved in its implementation. The central research question is: “How is electronic monitoring for juvenile offenders implemented and experienced by the actors involved in Flanders?”
The findings of this study will contribute to the academic literature by generating new knowledge on experiences with and decision-making processes surrounding EM, while also providing concrete insights for practice. The findings may support policymakers in further developing and optimising the use of EM within the Flemish youth justice system.
Promotors: Els Dumortier, Jenneke Christiaens
Researcher: Kyana De Boeck
Duration: 01/10/2025 – 1/10/2031