Juvenile Laws at Azerbaijan
Azerbaijan's juvenile justice system has undergone significant reforms in recent years, aiming to align with international standards and prioritize the rehabilitation of young offenders.
Legal Framework:
Criminal Liability: In Azerbaijan, individuals aged 14 to 18 are considered minors in the context of criminal law. While the general age of criminal responsibility is 16, minors aged 14 and above can be held criminally liable for specific serious offenses, including deliberate murder, bodily harm, kidnapping, rape, theft, robbery, and drug-related crimes. The Criminal Code stipulates that minors may face penalties such as fines, public works, corrective works, restriction of freedom, or imprisonment for a determined term, with the maximum prison sentence for juveniles set at 10 years.
Juvenile Justice Reforms:
Diversion and Rehabilitation: To divert minors from the formal criminal justice system, Azerbaijan has established diversion centers and legal clinics. The first diversion center and legal clinic opened in Baku in 2007, followed by a second center in Ganja in 2014. These facilities provide psychological and social support, legal advice, and aim to prevent reoffending by addressing underlying issues.
Training and Capacity Building: Workshops and training sessions have been organized for judges, bailiffs, and probation officers to enhance their understanding of child-friendly justice and improve communication with juveniles. These initiatives focus on applying child-friendly communication guidelines and involving psychologists and social workers in judicial procedures.
Alternative Sentencing: Efforts have been made to implement alternatives to detention, emphasizing rehabilitation over punitive measures. Social rehabilitation programs and reintegration support aim to address the root causes of juvenile delinquency, such as poverty and family issues, and reduce recidivism.
Challenges and Ongoing Efforts:
Despite these advancements, challenges remain in fully aligning the juvenile justice system with international standards. Issues such as the need for specialized training for law enforcement and judicial personnel, improved conditions within detention facilities, and comprehensive social reintegration programs persist. Continuous efforts are underway to address these challenges and ensure that the rights and well-being of juveniles are upheld within the justice system.
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