Rwanda's Supreme Court has introduced new guidelines to ensure that children's rights are protected in legal proceedings. The guidelines, signed by President of the Supreme Court, Domitilla Mukantaganzwa, on October 1, 2026, aim to provide child-friendly justice and prevent children from being traumatized or stigmatized during court proceedings. The guidelines will apply to all cases involving children.
The new guidelines provide for special treatment of cases involving children, including the use of child-friendly language and the presence of a trusted adult during court proceedings. The guidelines also provide that judges, prosecutors, and lawyers will not wear formal attire during child-related cases. Instead, they will use simple language that children can understand and provide them with necessary support.
The guidelines also emphasize the importance of protecting children's identities and preventing them from being exposed to public scrutiny. Children's identities will not be disclosed in court documents or public records. Additionally, court proceedings involving children will be held in private, with only authorized individuals allowed to attend.
The guidelines also provide for the use of alternative dispute resolution methods, such as mediation and reconciliation, in cases involving children. In cases where children are accused of crimes, the court will prioritize rehabilitation over punishment. The court will also consider the child's background, circumstances, and potential for rehabilitation when making decisions.
The guidelines apply to all cases involving children, including those who are victims, witnesses, or accused of crimes. They also apply to cases related to child protection and family law. The Supreme Court aims to ensure that children's rights are protected and that they receive fair and just treatment during court proceedings.
According to the guidelines, courtrooms will be adapted to create a child-friendly environment, free from intimidation and trauma. Security personnel will not be present in the courtroom, unless necessary. The guidelines also provide for the presence of a social worker or a child protection expert during court proceedings to provide support to the child.
The introduction of these guidelines is a significant step towards ensuring that children's rights are protected in Rwanda's justice system. The Supreme Court has demonstrated its commitment to upholding the rights of children and providing them with a safe and supportive environment during court proceedings. The guidelines will come into effect immediately and will be reviewed regularly to ensure their effectiveness.
Key points
- The new guidelines prioritize the protection of children's rights and well-being during court proceedings.
- The guidelines introduce child-friendly measures, such as the use of simple language and private court proceedings.
- The guidelines emphasize rehabilitation over punishment for children accused of crimes.
