El rol de los sujetos procesales en el proceso penal ecuatoriano: un análisis desde la criminología y la política criminal

Abstract

Abstract: This paper analyzes the role of the individuals involved in the Ecuadorian criminal justice system from legal, criminological, and criminal policy perspectives, with the aim of understanding how their actions affect the effectiveness of the criminal justice system. The research was conducted using a qualitative approach, based on the documentary analysis of legal norms, specialized doctrine, relevant jurisprudence, and institutional reports. This allowed for an examination of the responsibilities, limitations, and challenges faced by prosecutors, defense attorneys, victims, and defendants. The results show that, although the Ecuadorian legal system establishes an accusatory and rights-based criminal justice system, problems persist in practice that affect its functioning. Among the main difficulties identified are the heavy caseload of justice system personnel, deficiencies in specialized technical training, limited inter-institutional coordination, and restrictions on the application of alternatives to incarceration. Finally, the study concludes that optimizing the criminal justice system requires strengthening criminal policy with preventive and restorative approaches, continuous training for personnel, and actions consistent with constitutional principles and human rights.