Non-custodial measures guide for juveniles launched

The National Council for Family Affairs (NCFA) and the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) on Wednesday launched an analytical study and guide for non-custodial measures for juveniles. Non-custodial measures are defined as an alternative punishment imposed on convicts to replace the prison sentence with a service performed by the prisoner for a group of society. Employing non-custodial measures would contribute to educating juveniles and training them in professions useful to society, encouraging them to stay away from criminal behavior by giving them an opportunity for reform combined with freedom. This necessitates positive integration into society and carried out public service away from mixing with criminal tendencies in prisons. Mohammad Miqdadi, secretary-general of the NCFA, said the importance of preparing the analytical study stems from the need to identify gaps in applying non-custodial measures and address them in cooperation with the UNHCR and other partners. He added that the guide aims to provide an applicable reference and methodological tool that addresses workers involved with juveniles in general and focuses on non-custodial measures in particular, within a system of procedures consistent with international standards and covenants, national legislation, and best practices. Head of the Protection Department at UNHCR Jordan Taiba Sharif indicated that the launching of this guide is evidence of the seriousness of building the criminal justice system in a way that keeps pace with contemporary developments and challenges. She affirmed that the UNHCR is looking forward to strengthening the justice system and providing an environment conducive to the public interest.

Source: Jordan News Agency