EU Calls for Stronger Protection of Children’s Rights in Criminal Justice System

The International Commission of Jurists (ICJ) has urged European Union (EU) countries to strengthen the protection of children involved in criminal proceedings, stating that many young suspects and accused persons still do not receive the safeguards guaranteed under EU law. During an event held at the European Parliament, legal experts, policymakers, and child rights organisations discussed the gaps in implementing EU Directive 2016/800, which aims to ensure that children are treated fairly throughout the criminal justice process.

Although children are entitled to legal assistance, clear information about their rights, individual assessments, and protection against unnecessary detention, these safeguards are not being applied consistently across Member States.

Participants highlighted that children from disadvantaged backgrounds, including those affected by poverty, migration, or social exclusion, often face greater barriers in accessing justice and are more vulnerable to rights violations.

Experts also raised concerns about the shortage of trained child justice professionals and the continued use of child protection or family law measures in criminal matters, which may result in children being deprived of their liberty without adequate procedural safeguards. The discussions concluded that improving child-friendly justice requires stronger legal protections, better training for judges, prosecutors, lawyers, and law enforcement officials, and greater cooperation between governments, EU institutions, and civil society.

The ICJ reaffirmed that every child should be treated with dignity, fairness, and respect, in line with international human rights standards and the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child.