The evolution of life imprisonment and its compatibility with human dignity

Chocce Vela V.P. · Justicia (Barranquilla) (2025) · DOI: 10.17081/just.30.47.7871

Resumen

The general objective of this article is to analyze the historical evolution of the life sentence and evaluate its compatibility with the principles of human dignity, considering its impact on the fundamental rights of prisoners and its relationship with contemporary justice systems. Adopts a qualitative approach; with a research design that is exploratory and descriptive, with an emphasis on documentary analysis; The historical evolution of life imprisonment and its compatibility with human dignity were considered. Search terms such as "life imprisonment", "human rights", "penal rehabilitation" and "human dignity" were used, selecting sources published between 2000 and 2024, and others. The results highlight that life imprisonment without review raises questions about its compatibility with rehabilitation and human dignity; Systems that prioritize rehabilitation, such as in Norway, achieve better reintegration rates compared to more punitive approaches, such as in the United States. It was concluded that life imprisonment without review violates human dignity, while the possibility of review and a rehabilitative approach such as that of Norway, favor reintegration and reduce recidivism.

Instituciones: Universidad César Vallejo