The feasibility of rehabilitating pedophiles in light of international human rights law

Abstract

Pedophilia is a serious issue in the modern era, particularly given the advent of technology, which provides an ideal environment for such individuals to conceal themselves. Society—including the judiciary—often holds a distorted view of pedophilia, erroneously believing that any child abuser is a pedophile. A more accurate understanding of the subject is essential for the State to adopt the most appropriate and effective approach. The crux of the matter is that incarceration fails to have a rehabilitative effect on these individuals; they are not merely "perverts," but people suffering from a severe psychiatric condition that impairs their self-determination. Consequently, the best approach to their rehabilitation involves multidisciplinary treatment—combining care from various medical specialists and psychologists with pharmacological intervention—while society and the State should also remain open to considering alternative measures, such as chemical castration.