A talk on prisons, punishment, and the criminal justice system, in Scotland and beyond with guest speaker Sarah Armstrong, Professor of Criminology at the University of Glasgow.

Many people don’t know Scotland has one of the most punitive criminal justice systems in Europe. Evidence for this includes the highest proportion of life sentences (and more than England) and remand populations on the continent, high police stop-and search-levels,  and continued criminalisation of substance dependence. Professor Sarah Armstrong will consider possible explanations for this and reflect on the paradox of a punitive justice system in a country that thinks of itself as progressive. Sarah will explore with attendees what a more just approach to justice might look like.

Doors open at 1pm for a 1.30pm prompt start.