Young people around the world are getting a rough deal from justice systems. Governments are breaking international laws that say that young offenders should be rehabilitated, not only punished. All around the world too many young people are being locked up, for too long. And young people are at risk from violence, abuse, and even murder.
Systems which only focus on punishment do nothing to stop re-offending and reduce crime – and fail society too. Find out how:
Punishing the poor
Poor and vulnerable young people are being punished for the things they need to do to survive.
Getting away with murder
Young people are being tortured, abused and even killed by the police, prison officers, and the public.
Failing to deal with gangs
Governments are locking up young people for being a member of a gang – even if they’re not breaking the law.
Throwing away the key
Too many young people are being locked up. The conditions are often dangerous, overcrowded and inhumane.
Twisting the truth
Media reports on youth crime are often unfair and exaggerated – and politicians react by promising to get tough and introduce harsher punishments.
