Karma Koala Podcast 256: Dr Simon Howell Centre of Criminology University of Capetown – Divorcing Cannabis & Perceived Criminality In South Africa | Cannabis Law Report | Where to buy Skittles Moonrock online

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Dr Howell sat on a panel this week on the topic of Global Cannabis Law & Regulation from the perspective of how South Africa as a country is trying to tackle the move from unregulated to regulated cannabis ( it is already legal to consume cannabis in a private space due to a court case that went to the highest court in the land) but in a country with 40% youth unemployment, crime on the rise and a poverty trap that many have yet to escape how does this play out with regard to interaction with the forces of law and order for the majority of the population

Not well is the short answer.

Prior to the conference Simon and I recorded this conversation talking about and around the topic.

Dr Simon Howell

With over a decade of experience spanning research, teaching, and policy development, I have dedicated my career to addressing complex issues of criminality, social justice, and governance, particularly within the African context.

Educational Background: I earned my Ph.D. in Political Philosophy from Rhodes University, where my doctoral research focused on the ontological dimensions of addiction, exploring the intersection between human behavior, criminality, and societal structures. This work formed the foundation of my ongoing research in criminology and public policy.

Research and Professional Experience: Currently, I serve as a Senior Research Associate at the Centre of Criminology at the University of Cape Town. My research addresses critical societal challenges, including the illegal drug economy, youth violence, and community safety. This role builds on my prior experience as Research Director at the African Policing Civilian Oversight Forum (APCOF), where I led high-impact research on police accountability and human rights, contributing to policy reform across the African continent.

My work is not confined to academia; I have actively engaged with governmental and non-governmental organizations, contributing to national and international discussions on public safety, crime prevention, and governance.

Teaching and Supervision: I have convened and taught courses on African studies and the geopolitics of drug economies, as well as supervised postgraduate research in criminology.

I have authored several publications and reports on criminology, human rights, and public policy, contributing to the global discourse on governance and justice. My work has been disseminated in academic journals, policy papers, and presentations at international conferences.

Commitment to Social Change: Throughout my career, I have been driven by a commitment to making a tangible impact on society. Whether through research, policy recommendations, or public engagement, my goal is to influence real-world change in how societies address crime, justice, and human rights, particularly in underrepresented and marginalized communities.

I welcome opportunities to collaborate with fellow academics, policymakers, and institutions dedicated to advancing social justice and public safety.