Newspaper campaigns and individual activism have played a crucial role in shaping criminology policy and law reform in the UK. These campaigns have demonstrated the power of media influence and public pressure in bringing about significant legal changes.
One of the most notable examples involves the abolition of the "Year and a day rule" in criminal law. This ancient principle stated that a defendant could only be charged with homicide if the victim died within a year and a day of the criminal act. Through persistent newspaper campaigns and pressure group activism, this outdated rule was eventually abolished in 1996. The campaign highlighted how modern medical technology could keep victims alive longer, making the traditional timeframe obsolete. This change in law has been particularly significant for WJEC Criminology studies, demonstrating how public advocacy can lead to meaningful legal reform.
Individual campaigns affecting law change have also been instrumental in other areas of criminal justice reform. Pressure group campaigns have successfully influenced legislation on various issues, from domestic violence to hate crimes. These campaigns typically involve a combination of media coverage, public demonstrations, and direct lobbying of lawmakers. The success of these initiatives often depends on their ability to gather public support and maintain sustained pressure on decision-makers. Notable examples include campaigns for victims' rights, reforms in sexual offense laws, and changes to self-defense legislation. These campaigns have not only changed specific laws but have also shaped broader public discourse around criminal justice issues. Students studying Unit 2 Criminology WJEC often examine these campaigns as case studies in how public advocacy can influence legal reform, making them essential examples for understanding the relationship between media, public opinion, and criminal justice policy.
