Juvenile Laws at Sri Lanka
Sri Lanka has undertaken significant reforms in its juvenile justice system to enhance the protection and rehabilitation of minors.
⚖️ Legal Framework
Minimum Age of Criminal Responsibility: In December 2023, Sri Lanka amended its Penal Code to raise the minimum age of criminal responsibility from 8 to 12 years. For children aged 12 to 14, criminal liability is determined based on their maturity and understanding of the offense, as assessed by a judge
Children and Young Persons Ordinance (CYPO): Originally enacted in 1939, the CYPO has been amended to extend its protection to all individuals under 18 years of age, aligning with international standards
🏛 Juvenile Justice System
Juvenile Courts: Specialized Juvenile Courts have been established to handle cases involving minors, ensuring that proceedings are tailored to the needs of children and young persons
Rehabilitation Over Punishment: The amended CYPO emphasizes rehabilitation, with provisions for placing juveniles in approved schools or under probation, rather than in adult prisons
🛡 Rights and Safeguards
Prohibition of Corporal Punishment The amendments to the CYPO have repealed provisions that allowed corporal punishment, aligning with global child rights standards
Separation from Adults Juveniles are to be kept separate from adults in detention facilities, ensuring that they are not exposed to adult criminal influences
🤝 International Commitments
**Alignment with the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child (CRC)*: Sri Lanka's legal reforms reflect its commitment to the CRC, ensuring that the rights and welfare of children are prioritized in the justice system
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These reforms signify Sri Lanka's dedication to creating a juvenile justice system that prioritizes the rehabilitation and protection of minors, aligning with international standards and best practices.
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