Miscarriage of Justice: A Wound of Justice in Indonesia

History of Miscarriage of Justice

Miscarriage of justice, or miscarriage of justiceis a phenomenon that has occurred since ancient times. History records many cases where people were convicted of crimes they did not commit.

Some examples of miscarriages of justice in the past:

• Dreyfus Affair (1894): Alfred Dreyfus, a French Jewish military officer, was convicted of espionage. Only after several years was it proven that he was innocent and a victim of anti-Semitism.
• Salem Witch Trials (1692-1693): In the United States, 20 people were convicted and executed on charges of witchcraft. It was later discovered that they were victims of hysteria and prejudice.
• Sacco and Vanzetti Case (1921): Nicola Sacco and Bartolomeo Vanzetti, two Italian immigrants in the United States, were convicted of murder and robbery. Many believe they were victims of discrimination and anti-anarchism.

Factors that cause miscarriages of justice in the past:

• Lack of evidence: Scientific and forensic evidence has not developed as rapidly as it is today, so judges and juries often have to make decisions based on inaccurate or incomplete evidence.
• Prejudice: Prejudice against race, religion, ethnicity, or social class can influence the judicial process and cause people to be unfairly convicted.
• Human error: Errors in the investigation, identification, or interpretation of evidence can trap innocent people.

Modern developments in efforts to prevent miscarriages of justice:

• Scientific development: Advances in science and technology, such as forensic DNA, help improve accuracy in the investigation and evidentiary process.
• Increased standards of evidence: Stricter standards of evidence are enforced to ensure that only truly guilty people are convicted.
• The role of organizations and activists: Various organizations and activists work to raise awareness about miscarriages of justice and help free wrongfully convicted people.