Perception of security and judicial effectiveness among citizens in the city of Babahoyo
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.62452/dd7aar93Keywords:
Insecurity, perception of security, criminality, justice, public trustAbstract
The Ecuadorian judicial system has faced multiple challenges in the prevention and prosecution of crime, which has consequently affected citizens' perception of security. For this reason, the present study focused on analyzing the effectiveness of the judicial system in both preventing and prosecuting criminal activity, as well as evaluating its influence on public perceptions of safety. A mixed-methods approach was employed, combining both qualitative and quantitative analyses. Specifically, surveys and interviews were conducted with 150 participants, including lawyers, prosecutors, and residents of the Clemente Baquerizo parish, to gather data regarding perceptions of security and trust in the justice system. In addition, crime statistics and judicial performance indicators were reviewed. The findings revealed that a significant portion of the population perceived a lack of effectiveness in the judicial system, leading to distrust and a widespread sense of insecurity. In response, citizens expressed the need to implement legislative reforms aimed at enhancing transparency and efficiency within the judicial framework. In conclusion, the study proposed the adoption of legislative measures to strengthen the system’s capacity for managing cases more effectively and transparently. To achieve this, it was suggested that research initiatives be promoted to improve the training of justice system operators, enhance judicial effectiveness, restore public trust, and
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