Juvenile Laws at Nauru
Nauru has taken significant steps to enhance the protection of children's rights and welfare through legislative reforms in recent years.
⚖️ Legal Framework
Child Protection and Welfare Act 2016: Enacted in June 2016, this Act aims to safeguard all children under the age of 18 in Nauru. It establishes a comprehensive framework for the care, protection, and welfare of children, aligning with international conventions and Nauruan cultural values. A notable provision is the mandatory reporting requirement for suspected child sexual abuse or exploitation by persons in authority, including those in educational, religious, health, and detention settings.
Domestic Violence and Family Protection Act 2017: Coming into force in June 2017, this Act criminalizes domestic violence and provides mechanisms for the protection of women and children. It offers access to emergency, temporary, and permanent protection orders against perpetrators, reinforcing Nauru's commitment to addressing domestic violence and supporting victims.
🏛 Juvenile Justice System
Guardianship of Children Act 1975:This Act governs child protection proceedings in Nauru, allowing cases to be heard in either the Family Court or the Supreme Court, It emphasizes the child's right to express their opinions in matters affecting them, in line with Article 12 of the Convention on the Rights of the Child, However, challenges such as the absence of a legal aid system, lack of child-friendly court procedures, and limited resources for legal representation persists.
🌍 International Commitments
Convention on the Rights of the Child (CRC) Nauru ratified the CRC in July 199. While the CRC does not automatically form part of national law, it serves as interpretative guidance for the court. Nauru has cited the CRC in legal proceedings, including adoption cases, reflecting its influence on national jurisprudence.
These legislative measures underscore Nauru's dedication to enhancing child protection and welfar. Ongoing efforts are essential to address existing challenges and fully realize the rights and protections afforded to children under these law.
RELATED Blog
0 comments