The Ministry of Justice of Ukraine hosted a working meeting dedicated to the protection of children’s rights in the justice system, engaging international expert assistance and implementing pilot projects. The event was attended by Deputy Minister of Justice for European Integration Liudmyla Suhak, Deputy Minister Oleksandr Banchuk, Special Representative of the UN Secretary-General on Violence against Children Najat Maalla Mjid, and a UNICEF delegation led by Munir Mammadzadeh.
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Among the key issues discussed at the meeting was the creation of a register of children deported or forcibly displaced due to the war, which allows better tracking the fate of these children and facilitate their return. A preliminary model of the register has already been developed, but it needs to be further improved, particularly in the area of data security.
Work is also underway on a new National Strategy for Reforming the Child Justice System. It envisages the development of restorative justice, the creation of a register of psychologists involved in criminal proceedings, and the introduction of a child-friendly approach to justice.
UNICEF Ukraine confirmed its readiness to support the country in child protection issues. The organisation has offered expert and technical assistance, as well as possible funding for reforms, including training programmes and the development of registries.
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