Juvenile Laws at Papua New Guinea
Papua New Guinea (PNG) has established a juvenile justice system aimed at addressing the unique needs of minors who come into conflict with the law. This system emphasizes restorative justice, rehabilitation, and reintegration, aligning with international standards such as the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child.
1. Legal Framework:
Juvenile Justice Act 2014: This Act repealed the Juvenile Courts Act 1991, introducing a comprehensive juvenile justice system based on restorative justice principles, Melanesian traditions, and contemporary practices. It emphasizes non-custodial sentencing over punitive measures, promoting rehabilitation and community-based solutions.
2. Juvenile Justice Services:
Establishment: The Juvenile Justice Service operates under the Department of Justice and Attorney General (DJAG), with Juvenile Justice Officers stationed across provinces.
Functions: These officers provide support and counseling to juveniles, conduct assessments, and recommend diversion or sentencing options.
3. Diversion and Restorative Justice:
Diversion Programs: For minor offenses, diversion strategies such as community-based conferencing are employed, involving the offender, victim, and community to repair harm and reintegrate the juvenile.
Restorative Justice: This approach focuses on healing and reconciliation, drawing from traditional Melanesian values and modern restorative practices.
4. Juvenile Institutions:
Facilities: There are six juvenile institutions in PNG, managed by both church organizations and the state. These facilities focus on rehabilitation through educational programs, vocational training, and counseling.
Programs: Initiatives include anger management, substance abuse rehabilitation, life skills training, psychosocial support, and psychiatric services.
5. National and Provincial Committees:
National Juvenile Justice Committee: Established under Section 23 of the Juvenile Justice Act 2014, this committee oversees the implementation of juvenile justice initiatives, promotes inter-agency cooperation, and develops national plans for juvenile crime prevention.
Provincial Committees: Fourteen provincial committees have been formed, each developing Three-Year Work Plans aligned with national strategies to enhance juvenile justice services.
6. Recent Developments:
Juvenile Rehabilitation and Reintegration Policy 2021-2030: Launched in June 2022, this policy provides a framework for structured rehabilitation and reintegration programs, aiming to reduce reoffending and improve social integration of juveniles.
7. Challenges and Ongoing Efforts:
Implementation: While legislative frameworks are in place, challenges remain in fully implementing diversion programs and ensuring consistent application across regions.
Capacity Building: Efforts are ongoing to train juvenile justice personnel, including police officers and court officials, to effectively handle juvenile cases.
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