Children in conflict with the law

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Special CRINMAIL on Children in Conflict with the Law

Juvenile justice is a matter of practical concern in all regions and all legal systems. Large numbers of children become caught up in the legal system, as accused or accusers, victims or witnesses and in situations outside conflicts with the criminal law, such as asylum-seeking children, refugee and unaccompanied children, and children incarcerated with their mothers.

National laws need to be brought into full compliance with the Convention on the Rights of the Child, and all actions have to be taken with the best interests of the child as a primary consideration.
  

Children in Conflict with the Law and the Convention on the Rights of the Child

The CRC contains several articles that specifically address the issue of juvenile justice. Article 12 states that children have the right to be heard in judicial proceedings affecting them. Issues related to the prohibition of torture and the deprivation of liberty are set out in article 37. Thirdly, article 40 refers to the administration of juvenile justice.
  

For more information

Read Juvenile Justice: Modern Concepts of Working with Children in Conflict with the Law, Save the Children UK (2004)

Read CRIN's guide to international and regional norms and standards for children in conflict with the law.

Visit also the NGO Group subgroup on Juvenile Justice.

Use our SEARCH to locate the information you are looking for.

You can also visit our website on Violence Against Children for a more thourough search.