2021

Introduction This article sets to highlight the challenges children who come into contact with the law in Zambia face and suggests possible solutions towards a more child-friendly justice system that addresses their issues within their unique vulnerabilities and what is in their best interests. Challenges in the Zambian Justice system Children come into contact with the law in different ways. Either for family matters of adoption, administrative issues such as immigration or criminal cases as offenders, victims or witnesses. However, despite Zambia being party to numerous International and Regional Treaties and human rights instruments such as the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child (UNCRC) and the African Charter on the Rights and Welfare of the Child (ACRWC), there still exist numerous gaps in the Justice system, exposing children to traumatic experiences in an intimidating and often daunting environment. Most duty bearers are ignorant of children’s rights and how ... Read More