„Leaving No One Behind: Female Criminality and Rehabilitation within the SDG Framework, national and international perspectives“

The principle of “Leaving No One Behind,” embedded in the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development (A/RES/70/1), requires states to prioritize those most marginalized in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Within this framework, women in conflict with the law represent one of the most overlooked and rapidly growing populations worldwide - the global female prison population has risen by over 60% since 2000. This presentation explores the interconnection between female criminality, rehabilitation, and the SDG framework through national and international perspectives. It examines structural drivers such as poverty, gender-based violence, limited education and employment opportunities, and mental health disparities that contribute to women’s pathways into crime. The analysis further identifies the urgent need for gender-responsive rehabilitation and re-entry programs aligned with SDGs 1 (No Poverty), 3 (Good Health and Well-being), 4 (Quality Education), 5 (Gender Equality), 8 (Decent Work), 10 (Reduced Inequalities), and 16 (Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions). Particular attention is given to strengthening family support, community engagement, and legal reforms inspired by the UN Bangkok Rules and CEDAW recommendations. Drawing on recent UNODC, UNDP, and Penal Reform International data, the study argues that inclusive justice policies—rooted in empowerment, equity, and cross-sector collaboration—are essential to sustainable reintegration and social resilience. Ensuring that women offenders are visible in SDG monitoring and justice reform processes is not only a human rights imperative but also a measure of societies’ genuine commitment to sustainable development and the universality of justice.