The COVID-19 pandemic served as a catalyst for conversations about justice systems, shedding light on some key areas in need of transformation. It particularly highlighted how emerging technologies can play a role in that transformation, with a range of justice impacts and processes necessitating quick action.
Today, technology continues to disrupt and have a marked impact on justice systems. But it also offers the potential to transform systems so that they are more efficient and equitable. As discussed in Justice Reimagined: Exploring Opportunities to Help Transform Justice Systems -- a report from Deloitte Global that explores the long-term impacts of the pandemic on justice systems -- with every change factor comes opportunity.
The emergence of advanced technologies can be seen as a double-edged sword when it comes to justice systems. On the one hand, the proliferation of digital technologies has spawned an increase in organized, technology-enabled, and transnational crime. Cybercrime is seen as a high or very high threat by 60% of Interpol members, with 70% believing it will increase significantly in the coming years. Even more problematic is the rise of crime as a service, in which cybercrime skills are provided to others for a fee.
The widespread use of smartphones and the growth of online platforms is also escalating challenges in managing the growing volume and complexity of digital evidence. Many law enforcement agencies worldwide face inadequate infrastructure, a shortage of skilled professionals, and inconsistent implementation of new technologies, which in turn risks disparities in justice delivery and a growing strain on forensic analysis.
On the other hand, technology is increasingly being integrated into justice systems around the world to improve operations. In many cases, technology adoption in justice systems accelerated during the pandemic to allow operations to continue despite physical restrictions. Courts, for example, had to shift operations and make use of virtual technology and electronic filing. Now, cloud infrastructure, automation, artificial intelligence (AI), data analytics, and digital communication platforms are helping to build efficiency and enhance investigative processes -- as well as fostering a more inclusive and accessible experience throughout justice systems.
While technology is presenting a host of challenges to justice systems, it's clear that it also brings opportunities. The key is for systems to recognize these opportunities and make the most of them. Below are a few examples of how justice systems can use technology to further transform operations and approaches.
The integration of technology into justice system operations does present certain risks, including concerns relating to cybersecurity, privacy, and ethics as well as the rapid rate at which technology now advances. Law enforcement professionals also must strike a balance between harnessing the potential of technology while protecting individual rights and mitigating the risks of growing and complex datasets, technology misuse, and ethical concerns.
But if technologies are implemented thoughtfully and with well-governed data, the potential to improve outcomes can outweigh the risks. A more streamlined, data-based, and equitable justice system will be worth the effort.