| dc.description.abstract | The juvenile justice system in Bangladesh has undergone significant legal and
institutional reforms over the past decades, particularly with the enactment of the
Children Act 2013, which replaced the outdated Children Act 1974. Despite the
legislative advancements aimed at aligning national laws with international
standards such as the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child
(UNCRC), the practical implementation of juvenile justice remains fraught with
challenges. This thesis critically examines the legal framework, institutional
mechanisms, and socio-legal dynamics that shape the juvenile justice system in
Bangladesh. It explores the extent to which the current system adheres to
principles of child protection, restorative justice, and due process, while
highlighting persistent issues such as arbitrary detention, lack of specialized
juvenile courts, inadequate legal representation, and poor rehabilitation facilities.
Drawing on a combination of doctrinal legal analysis and empirical findings from
reports, case studies, and judicial decisions, this study identifies gaps between law
and practice. It further investigates the roles of law enforcement agencies,
judiciary, and non-governmental organizations in safeguarding the rights of
children in conflict with the law. The thesis also assesses the socio-economic
factors contributing to juvenile delinquency and critiques the often punitive rather
than rehabilitative approach in dealing with young offenders.
Ultimately, this research argues for a more child-centric and rights-based
approach to juvenile justice, emphasizing capacity building, legal awareness,
diversion programs, and stronger monitoring mechanisms. The findings aim to
inform policymakers, legal professionals, and human rights advocates about the
reforms needed to ensure a fair, effective, and humane juvenile justice system in
Bangladesh. | en_US |
