Chemical castration for sex offenders: what it is and why it’s generating a global debate
What is chemical castration?
It is not a surgical procedure.
It consists of administering medications that reduce testosterone levels.
The goal is to reduce sexual drive in people convicted of sexual offenses.
Its effect is reversible if treatment is discontinued.
In which countries is it applied?
Some states in the United States allow its application under certain criteria.
Similar legislation also exists in countries such as South Korea, Poland, and parts of Eastern Europe.
In most cases, it is applied as a condition for parole.
And it generally requires medical supervision.
Arguments in favor
Those who support the measure argue that it can reduce recidivism.
They argue that it is less severe than life imprisonment.
And that it offers an additional tool within the criminal justice system.
They also point out that in some cases the treatment is voluntary.
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