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UN-backed workshop in Iraq charts new direction for juvenile justice

UN-backed workshop in Iraq charts new direction for juvenile justice

Senior members of the Iraqi Government attending a United Nations-backed workshop in Amman, Jordan, today took a step forward for children's rights by reaffirming standards for dealing with juveniles who come in conflict with the law.

"Injustice often creates a breeding ground for resentment that can lead to further law-breaking and aggression," said Roger Wright of the UN Children's Fund (UNICEF), which organized the three-day event. "When young people receive just treatment under the law, they are more likely to respect the law."

Mr. Wright reaffirmed UNICEF's commitment to assisting the Iraqi authorities, communities and families to ensure that the rights of all children and young people are respected.

In a declaration adopted at the workshop's conclusion, the nearly 40 participants reaffirmed that the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child is law in Iraq, and vowed to uphold key legal measures for juveniles, including the presumption of innocence, protection against torture, special attention for girls and confidentiality of records.

All Iraqi youngsters "should be covered by a consistent, independent and specialized juvenile justice system," they said.