UNIS/CP/502
14 October 2004
Switzerland to Assist United Nations in Strengthening Juvenile Justice in the Middle East
VIENNA, 14 October (UN Information Service) -- The United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) has received a pledge of approximately one million US Dollars from Switzerland, which is earmarked for its project titled “Strengthening the legislative and institutional capacity of the juvenile justice system in Jordan”.
Switzerland’s contribution will facilitate UNODC’s efforts to assist the governments of the Middle East in improving their capacity in the field of juvenile justice. The project in Jordan follows the successful implementation of similar projects in Lebanon and Egypt.
Though Jordan has made progress in improving its juvenile justice system, its current capacity does not enable a response that is adequate enough to protect and ensure the best interests of the child. Besides compromising the future of children already in conflict with the law, this also affects children at risk of becoming involved in criminal activities.
The project aims at increasing Jordan’s capacity to address juvenile justice in conformity with international standards and norms. Activities will include training of professionals working in the fields of law enforcement, the judiciary, and social affairs. A residential institution for juveniles who have committed serious offences, and a Youth Care Service with residential facilities for children in difficult circumstances will also be established.
* *** *
