'Less intimidating courtrooms' for children take effect; what to know

Since early November, the Judiciary has been implementing new measures to make court proceedings easier and less intimidating for children. The measures are outlined in new instructions governing cases involving children, with the aim of protecting their dignity, ensuring their safety and supporting their rehabilitation. On Tuesday, November 10, Chief Justice Domitilla Mukantaganzwa and Sweden's Ambassador to Rwanda, Henrik Nilsson, and Lieke van de Wiel, UNICEF Rwanda Representative visited Gasabo Intermediate Court to observe how the new procedures are being implemented. ALSO READ: Juvenile cases to get priority under new Supreme Court rules At the court, they interacted with judges, prosecutors and lawyers on the practical application of the instructions, which took effect on November 1, following their publication in the Official Gazette on October 1. The measures include separate waiting areas, protection of the children’s identities, and changes to how judicial officers interact with them. In addition, judges, prosecutors and lawyers handling cases involving children are required to avoid professional attire, while uniformed officers are not allowed in courtrooms unless their presence is necessary for security reasons. Children must also be addressed in language they can understand, with judicial officers required to explain the proceedings and ensure they are prepared to participate. Liberal Majyambere, a lawyer who helps children navigate legal proceedings, says these changes address some of the challenges children face when appearing before courts. He said children may struggle to communicate freely in an intimidating environment, affecting their ability to provide accurate information about their circumstances. The new arrangements, he explained, help children feel more comfortable and participate more meaningfully in proceedings. He also emphasised the importance of having lawyers and judicial officers equipped with the necessary skills to handle cases involving children. Harrison Mutabazi, the Judiciary spokesperson, said the instructions address gaps in the justice system by recognising that children require special treatment when they come into contact with the law. He highlighted the introduction of pre-trial conferences, which bring together relevant judicial actors to assess cases before hearings begin, establish whether documentation is complete and determine whether a child is ready to participate. The arrangements are also intended to reduce unnecessary adjournments and ensure that cases involving children are handled without avoidable delays. Another important provision requires prosecutors to submit detailed reports on children before cases can be registered in court. The reports must include information about their family backgrounds, health, education and home environments, alongside recommendations on rehabilitation and social reintegration. Mutabazi also highlighted provisions requiring children to be transported separately from adults and provided with separate waiting areas at court. Their identities must remain confidential throughout the proceedings. He said the measures reflect a broader shift towards considering the individual circumstances of children rather than treating their cases in the same way as those involving adults. The framework further encourages restorative justice and rehabilitation, with courts required to consider approaches that serve the best interests of the child. Nilsson welcomed the Judiciary's efforts, noting that Sweden works with UNICEF globally on child protection and ensuring that justice systems consider children's needs. Van de Wiel also commended the Judiciary, describing justice for children as central to the organisation's mandate. She said UNICEF was encouraged by Rwanda's efforts to translate child rights principles into practical measures and highlighted the importance of countries learning from one another's experiences.

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'Less intimidating courtrooms' for children take effect; what to know