The new Children’s Court and Child-Friendly Room was commissioned on Thursday at the Wales Magistrate’s Court, funded by the United Nations International Children’s Fund (UNICEF).

This marks the second Children’s Court in Guyana, and the first in Region Three.

The initiative follows the successful establishment of the first Children’s Court at the Georgetown Magistrate’s Court in October 2018, aimed at providing reformative measures rather than punitive actions for young offenders under the age of 17.

The Children’s Court in Guyana is a specialized judicial body designed to handle cases involving children, focusing on rehabilitation and protection. Trained magistrates preside over these courts, having received specialized training to handle juvenile cases effectively.

The establishment of Children’s Courts aligns with international standards and best practices in juvenile justice, as emphasized by organizations like UNICEF. These courts prioritize a child-centred approach to justice, aiming for rehabilitation and reintegration rather than punishment alone.

The court’s jurisdiction includes cases related to children, such as custody, contact, guardianship, and maintenance.

The Child Care and Protection Agency (CPA) facilitates the court’s services, providing support and assistance to vulnerable families and ensuring the safety and protection of children.