UNICEF and the National Centre of Legislation and Legal Research of the Republic of Belarus signed a cooperation plan for 2019
On February 5, 2019, Dr. Rashed Mustafa Sarwar, Representative of the United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF) in Belarus, met with Vadim Ipatov, Director of the Center. At the meeting the parties discussed of results of mutual cooperation last year and signed a partnership plan for 2019.
The working plan created by UNICEF and the National Centre of Legislation and Legal Research focuses on close cooperation on improving legislation in the field of juvenile justice.
In particular, the parties decided on starting preparation of the Concept of juvenile justice. The Concept is supposed to become a strategic document that will determine the main directions of further improvement of the legislation of Belarus and law enforcement practice in the field of administration of justice, prevention, prosecution of cases committed by children and adolescents.
Preparation of the project is carried out by the Center together with government agencies, taking into account the best foreign practices in the legal systems of other countries. The road map will be an integral part of the Concept, containing a plan for the project's implementation and the new approaches to the institutionalization of juvenile justice in the national legislation.
In addition, in 2019 an international conference “Restorative Justice For Juveniles” will be held. The event will become a platform to discuss problems and work out optimal solutions for dealing with children in conflict with the law.
Issues of juvenile justice development, the realization of children's rights and freedoms, as well as assistance in improving national approaches in this area are a priority for UNICEF worldwide. UNICEF in Belarus is actively working in this direction, using its powers to establish a dialogue with stakeholders, including government organizations, civil society and international organizations, as well as to assist in the implementation of cooperation programs on the rights of the child.
Caring Family and Safe Environment for Every Child
- All children grow up in a family environment, in an atmosphere of happiness, love and understanding.
- All children are protected from any form of violence and abuse and benefit from necessary assistance.
- All parents know about the importance of the first three years of life for the development of their children.
- Mortality from external causes has declined and every home is safe for children.
- All children and adolescents are protected from bullying and violence online.
Development and Engagement of Teens and Young People
- All teens have access to appropriate healthcare, know how to protect themselves in difficult situations and practice safe behavior.
- Teens and young people take active part in developing and implementing solutions that affect their lives.
- Justice system is child-friendly and focuses on the best interests of the child.
- Mortality from external causes has declined and in every home has been created all the conditions for the safe living of children.
Early Childhood Intervention and Inclusion of Children with Disabilities
- Establish effective systems for early identification and early intervention for young children with disabilities and special needs.
- Promote inclusion in schools for all children – celebrate differences, support learning, and respond to individual needs.
- Eliminate stigma and discrimination against children with disabilities and their families.
Monitoring, Knowledge Generation and Partnership
- In cooperation with our partners, develop and pilot innovative solutions for and with children and adolescents
- Monitor the situation of children and women and generate knowledge to help government take evidence-based decisions and improve children-related policy
- Develop and strengthen strategic partnerships for children with government actors, private sector and NGO partners