 | OMCT_DCI_joint statement_HRC27 1 page / 1.98 MB |
Joint statement OMCT and DCI
Distinguished delegates and panelists,
The World Organisation Against Torture and Defence for Children International welcome the initiative of a panel discussion on the ways and means to end violence against children. We believe that this event is a positive contribution to the fight against torture, inhuman and degrading treatment.
On this occasion we would like to express our concern about several issues.
Regarding children deprived of liberty, we would like to recall that they are at higher risk of violence than many other children. Because of the setting they are in, children deprived of liberty are highly vulnerable to physical, psychological and sexual violence.
Therefore, we would like to emphasize the importance for States to establish effective and independent complaint mechanisms to deal with cases of violence involving children deprived of liberty. Complaint systems should lead to an effective investigation of possible abuses committed either during the arrest or during the detention.
It is then imperative to ensure that children in detention are aware of their rights and can access the mechanisms in place to protect them.
Moreover, there is a need to ensure effective monitoring and regular access to justice institutions by independent bodies empowered to conduct unannounced visits and interviews with children and staff, and to investigate allegations of violence.
Finally, we encourage States to mainstream the concern of children deprived of liberty and to call for the inclusion of a child protection goal in the post-2015 development agenda.
Thank you.
