The most effective prevention strategies will recognize children and youth as priority sectors of the population. A comprehensive approach to crime prevention through social development best addresses the combination of social, systemic, personal, and situational factors which place children and youth at risk of victimization and of engaging in criminal activity. We, as a country, must acknowledge the importance of efforts to improve the well-being and living conditions of children and youth. Social and economic security are essential to these efforts and should be given the priority they deserve. Failure to invest in social development will continue to have serious implications because it will affect crime.
Municipalities have considerable power to influence crime prevention strategies.
The development and implementation of effective crime prevention programs, realistic urban planning and zoning, the regulation of building construction and the provision of supervision in certain public places, are all viable options that are available to urban communities and are often under their exclusive jurisdiction. Initiatives do not, however, have to focus just on the individual at risk. They should also alter basic economic and social factors, such as poverty and poor housing. The responsibilities of municipalities can vary from province to province. It is the level of government closest to the people that is in the best position to clearly articulate the needs of that community, to develop appropriate programs in cooperation with key agencies and individuals, to recruit key players within the community to ensure the effective implementation of the programs, and, consequently, to involve the entire community.