International instruments on juvenile delinquency, reactions to juvenile offences, and harmonisation with national legislations: the case studies of Serbia and Slovenia

Abstract

All children, regardless of any personal characteristics, have certain rights guaranteed by numerous international instruments. The principles of the best interest of the child and of nondiscrimination are brought to the forefront in order to protect the child. Building upon this, juvenile delinquents, are a specific category of juveniles that require specific protection and treatment. This thesis will consider documents from important international organisations such as The United Nations, The Council of Europe, and the European Union, and the national legislations of Serbia and Slovenia. It will be analysed to which degree the latter is in accordance with the former. Furthermore, this thesis will find that juvenile justice systems in modern society have different characteristics, but that ultimately most have the same aim - reintegration and rehabilitation of juveniles. Moreover, the main features and effectiveness of juvenile prisons and juvenile correctional institutions in both countries can indicate the level to which agreed international standards are implemented and respected in practice. Key words: juvenile delinquency, juvenile justice system, international legislation, international standards, national legislation