Law on Juvenile Justice

The Law on Juvenile Justice in Cambodia, enacted in 2016, aims to establish norms and procedures for dealing with minors who have committed criminal offenses, ensured their rights and promoted rehabilitation and social integration. This law aligns with the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child (UNCRC) and aims to create a comprehensive juvenile justice system.

Law on Juvenile Justice 2016 establishes a specialized legal framework to protect the rights of minors in conflict with the law, emphasizing their rehabilitation and reintegration into society. ​

Objectives: The law aims to:

·       Ensure the rights of juveniles.​

·       Support the rehabilitation and reintegration of minors into society.​

·       Ensure social and community benefits.​

Key Provisions:

·       Age of Criminal Responsibility: The law sets the age of criminal responsibility at 14 years. Minors aged 14 to under 18 may be held criminally liable, but the law emphasizes measures tailored to their age and circumstances.​

·       Procedural Rights: Minors suspected or accused of committing an offense are entitled to specific rights, including:​

o   The right to refuse to answer questions with or without a lawyer present.

o   The right not to be compelled to testify against themselves.​

o   The right to privacy.​

o   The right to medical care and treatment.​

o   The right to be informed of the charges against them.​

o   The right to legal assistance and, if necessary, a pro bono lawyer.​

o   The right to have a designated representative participate in their case.​

o   The right to an interpreter if needed.​

o   The right to present evidence and question witnesses.​

o   The right to request bail and seek revision of court supervision.​

·       Diversion and Alternatives to Detention: The law promotes diversion mechanisms and alternatives to detention, such as probation, community service, and mediation, to prioritize rehabilitation over punitive measures.

·       Specialized Juvenile Justice System: It mandates the establishment of specialized procedures, authorities, and institutions for handling juvenile cases, ensuring that minors are treated in a manner appropriate to their age and development.​

·       Protection Against Harmful Practices: The law prohibits torture, corporal punishment, or any treatment that is cruel, inhumane, or degrading to minors.​