Juvenile Laws at South Sudan
South Sudan has made significant strides in developing a juvenile justice system that aligns with international standards, focusing on the rehabilitation and reintegration of minors in conflict with the law.
Establishment of Juvenile Reformatory Centres
Juvenile Reformatory Centre (JRC) in Juba: In November 2019, South Sudan inaugurated its first JRC in Juba, providing a dedicated facility for juveniles separate from adult offenders. This centre offers formal education, vocational training, rehabilitation services, and psychosocial support to prepare youths for reintegration into society.
Regional Centres: Following the success in Juba, regional centres such as the one in Wau have been established, offering similar programs aimed at reforming juvenile offenders and equipping them with skills for a productive future.
Judicial Processes and Challenges
Case Backlog: As of late 2023, over 300 juvenile inmates in Juba Prison lacked legal representation, leading to significant case backlogs. Efforts are ongoing to address this issue and expedite trials.
Court Hearings Amidst COVID-19: In 2020, the judiciary, with support from UNMISS, conducted hearings for over 100 juveniles in the JRC to reduce case backlogs and prison congestion during the pandemic.
Legal Framework
While South Sudan's legal framework emphasizes rehabilitation, challenges remain in aligning various laws and ensuring adequate resources for juvenile justice. Continued efforts are underway to harmonize legislation and improve the system's effectiveness.
In summary, South Sudan is committed to enhancing its juvenile justice system by providing specialized facilities and services for young offenders, though ongoing reforms are needed to address existing challenges.
RELATED Blog
0 comments