The Juvenile Justice System in Ghana is governed primarily by the Juvenile Justice Act, 2003 (Act 653), and The Children’s Act. 1998 (Act 560) as amended by Act 937 which aims to align the country's practices with international child rights standards.
1. Focus on restorative justice and child welfare.
2. Provide a child-friendly environment for
offenders, victims and witnesses.
3. Ensure the rights and dignity of children in
conflict with the law.
1. Specialized (Juvenile) Courts: there are child-friendly
courts present in every region of Ghana.
2. Non-Custodial Sentences: Sentencing juveniles to
prison or death is resorted to as a last resort.
3. Probation: Juveniles may be placed on probation
instead of imprisonment.
4. Placement with a Guardian: Juveniles may be
placed with a guardian or fit person.
5. Welfare Principle: Paramountcy of the best
interest of the juvenile in all matters.
6. Child Protection: Proceedings are restricted to
protect the child's privacy.
7. Diversion: Referral of the case away from the
criminal justice system.
8. Prohibition of certain forms of offenses: Juveniles
shall not be sentenced to prison or the death penalty.
1. Lack of Legal Awareness: Children and their
families may be unaware of their rights.
2. High Cost of Legal Proceedings: Access to
justice may be limited due to financial constraints.
3. Vulnerable Children: Children with disabilities,
from disadvantaged families, or without parental care face additional barriers.
1. Sensitization and Education: Raise awareness
about the juvenile justice system and child rights.
2. Capacity Building: Train stakeholders, including
judges, prosecutors, judicial service staff, social workers, reporters
(journalists) etc.
3. Collaboration: Foster partnerships between
government agencies, NGOs, and community organizations to support juvenile
justice reform.
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