In a collaborative effort to bolster the rights and well-being of children in Tajikistan, the Government of Switzerland, in conjunction with UNICEF, has embarked on an initiative aimed at ensuring equitable access to justice for the nation's youth, UNICEF reported. The initiative, titled "Realizing Children’s Equitable Access to Justice in Tajikistan," represents a stride towards fortifying Tajikistan’s justice and child protection systems.
With a budget of $1mn, the project marks a pivotal moment in Tajikistan's journey towards aligning its justice mechanisms with international standards, particularly the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child. Despite reforms in recent years, Tajikistan’s current justice system for children still relies on antiquated methodologies that fall short of international benchmarks.
One of the paramount objectives of the initiative is the establishment and promotion of a diversion system within Tajikistan’s legal framework, as outlined in the newly adopted Juvenile Justice System Reform Programme for 2023-2027. This diversion program seeks to offer alternative pathways for children entangled in the justice system, emphasizing rehabilitation, education, and reintegration over punitive measures.
Moreover, the project endeavors to harmonize Tajikistan's laws, policies, and practices with global standards to enhance child justice across the nation. Targeting 100 schools spanning all regions of Tajikistan, the campaign aims to reach at-risk adolescents, schoolchildren, parents, caregivers, as well as boys and girls in conflict with the law.
The initiative holds a broader vision of nurturing resilience among children and adolescents, empowering them to thrive in an environment characterized by tolerance, inclusivity, and safety. By equipping them with essential skills and competencies, the project aims to enable children to realize their full potential and contribute meaningfully to their communities and country.
A diverse array of experts, including judges, law enforcement officials, lawyers, social workers, teachers, and community leaders, will actively participate in the endeavor, lending their expertise to shape a more child-friendly justice system in Tajikistan.
Furthermore, the initiative will assist the Tajikistan government in mapping its existing social service infrastructure and enhancing coordination between the legal system and social welfare agencies. It will also provide training to law enforcement and justice professionals, fostering a deeper understanding of international child-friendly justice principles and generating evidence to support the implementation of diversion mechanisms.
The Swiss Cooperation Office in Tajikistan, operating within its broader Cooperation Program for Central Asia (2022-2025), plays a pivotal role in supporting economic, social, and democratic development in the region. With a focus on promoting good governance and fostering economic ties, Switzerland's involvement underscores its commitment to advancing the rights and well-being of children in Tajikistan.
Follow Daryo's official Instagram and Twitter pages to keep current on world news.
Comments (0)