ABSTRACT
Interventions for reducing reoffending are frequently criticised for not being based upon a foundation of empirical evidence (see Latessa et al. 2002). As a response, over the past three decades, there has been a sustained international movement, sometimes known as the ‘what works’ movement, to promote ‘evidence-based’ best practices in criminal justice. In some ways, the present moment may be the pinnacle of this ‘what works’ movement internationally. For instance, at a recent National Institute of Justice Annual Conference, US President Barack Obama’s Attorney General Eric Holder warmed many academic hearts in the room when he said:
Let me be clear: this administration shares your belief in the power of evidence-based research to help address some of our nation’s most significant challenges. President Obama has renewed our nation’s commitment to rely on science in the development of public policy. He understands, as I do, that sound judgement derives from solid evidence.
(Austin 2009)