Women recidivism in North Macedonia (2017–2024)

Female recidivism presents a growing challenge for the criminal justice system in North Macedonia and is shaped by socio-economic, psychological, and systemic factors. This article investigates women repeat offenders through the lens of Arnaudovski's (2007) theory and with the help of a mixed-methods approach, combining statistical analysis with qualitative data from case studies and interviews. Marital status, parental responsibilities, employment, type of prior offense, substance abuse, and sentencing are used to understand the recidivism rate among Macedonian female offenders, together with offense categories, motives behind initial crimes, and histories of trauma and victimization. Findings reveal that economic hardship, lack of support systems, unresolved trauma, and inadequate gender-sensitive rehabilitation increase the risk of reoffending. Stigma and systemic barriers hinder reintegration. Comprehensive, gender-responsive policies, including mental health services, childcare support, and targeted reintegration programs, can reduce female recidivism and promote successful societal reintegration.