AIMJF COMPARATIVE AND COLLABORATIVE RESEARCH ON CHILD PARTICIPATION AS VICTIMS AND WITNESSES IN CRIMINAL CASES

Abstract

The paper analyzes comparatively 45 national reports on child participation as victims or witnesses in criminal cases collected from members and collaborators of the International Association of Youth and Family Judges and Magistrates. After a short exposition of the aims of the research and some methodological considerations, applicable international and regional standards are highlighted to introduce and guide specific analysis of 1) the right to be heard; 2) coordination between the Justice system and other role players; 3) preparation for the child participation; 4) protection and support provided for children; 5) environment – where the child is heard; 6) specific legal guarantees for children; 7) interviewing structure and procedure; 8) alleged offender’s right during or after the interview; 9) coordination within the Justice System regarding parallel proceedings; 10) training provided for the Justice system and 11) reforms in progress. Final conclusions and recommendations for the future intend to stimulate further international judicial dialogue and experience sharing.