A cross-national spatial study of crime using variables informed by the International Organization for Standardization (ISO)

Abstract

Cross-national spatial studies of crime are rare. Reasons are manifold but include the lack of standardization of variables across, often diverse, contexts. In this study, we propose a potential solution to this impasse by examining the spatial causes of violent crime across two axiomatically different contexts: Khayelitsha (in South Africa) and Fort Lauderdale (in the United States). In a departure from previous research, our variable selection for this study is guided by the Organization for Standardization (ISO) standards, specifically ISO 37210 indicators—which relate to the Sustainable Development of Communities. We use these standards to operationalize the seminal spatial theory of crime, namely the social disorganization theory. Results show some similarity in the spatial risk factors associated with violent crime. We conclude by arguing for the benefits of using standardized variables in cross-national spatial crime research but also highlight the challenges of such an approach.