Tijana Angova Hadjieva
Ss. Cyril and Methodius University in Skopje,
Institute for Sociological, Political and Juridical Research
ORCID: https://orcid.org/0009-0005-2303-7011
19-36
Abstract
Modern criminal justice systems are increasingly moving away from an exclusive reliance on imprisonment and are introducing various forms of alternative sanctions that combine the preventive and rehabilitative functions of punishment. Within this context, treatment programs play a particularly significant role as part of such alternative sanctions. These programs represent specific measures aimed at offenders for whom dependency, psychosocial disorders, or a risk of reoffending—particularly violent behavior—has been identified. Instead of imposing imprisonment, the court may order an alternative sanction that requires mandatory participation in medical treatment or a social rehabilitation program, which is then carried out in the community under the supervision of a specialized service, most often the probation service. This model, however, raises certain medico-legal dilemmas. Through an analysis of domestic legislation and relevant comparative practices, applying content analysis and a legalistic methodological approach, with comparative and teleological interpretation, this paper aims to examine the complex medico-legal aspects, ethical implications, and practical challenges arising from mandatory medical treatment within the framework of alternative criminal sanctions in North Macedonia, with particular focus on suspended sentences with probation supervision and measures imposed in cases of domestic violence. The research is limited to a normative analysis of domestic and international legal provisions and the concept of consent, with a brief overview of practical effects related to the implementation of these treatment measures.
Keywords: alternative sanctions, medical treatments, probation, informed consent
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