UNICEF Statement on ill-treatment of juveniles in the penitentiary system in Georgia

UNICEF strongly condemns the child rights’ violations in the penitentiary system as documented and broadcasted in recent news. According to the Convention on the Rights of the Child „No child shall be subjected to torture or other cruel, inhuman or degrading treatment or punishment“. (Article 37, CRC). The same rights have been reiterated in other international and regional treaties that have been signed and ratified by Georgia.
 
UNICEF calls on the Government to launch a comprehensive investigation of ill-treatment of imprisoned and detained juveniles. The Government of Georgia has to ensure safety and security of all juveniles, including juveniles who might be possible victims and/or witnesses of violence in detention facilities. The Government has to secure that rights of all juveniles are protected now.
 
UNICEF has been concerned about the alleged ill-treatment in the Avchala Juvenile Establishment as reported in the Ombudsman’s statement of 9 August 2012, and urged the Government partners to provide adequate and immediate response.   
 
UNICEF in collaboration with other donors and local partners has been supporting the Government of Georgia in reforming the juvenile justice system and is willing to provide continuous assistance to all partners, in line with CRC and other international treaties.

http://unicef.ge