ABSTRACT
Juvenile justice is a sensitive and vital area of law that centres on the rights, welfare, and safety of children. It is governed by a range of national and international legal frameworks aimed at protecting children in conflict with the law while upholding their dignity and developmental needs. This chapter explores the legal and human rights norms enshrined in international treaties and conventions, emphasizing the need for a child-centric juvenile justice system. Through a comparative lens, the chapter examines conditions within juvenile detention facilities in India alongside those in developed countries such as the United States, the United Kingdom, and Germany. It assesses how children’s rights to rehabilitation, protection, health care, and education are implemented across these systems. Special attention is given to the effectiveness of support services and rehabilitation mechanisms in reintegrating juveniles and preventing recidivism. By analysing global best practices, this chapter identifies key gaps, challenges, and opportunities within India’s juvenile justice framework. It offers insights into alternative rehabilitation approaches, psychological support models, and improved institutional care drawn from international experiences, offering valuable guidance for strengthening India’s juvenile justice system.
