On the International Day of Children, the Coalition of NGOs for Child Protection – KOMF, in partnership with Terre des hommes in Kosovo, launched the “Justice that Sees the Child” campaign, an initiative aimed at promoting a child-friendly justice system and strengthening a child rights-based approach in the treatment of children in conflict with the law.

As part of the campaign launch, a symbolic and meaningful installation was placed at the Palace of Justice, conveying the message on the importance of preventing children from becoming involved in conflict with the law, as well as the need to ensure their treatment through rehabilitation, support, and reintegration into society. The installation served as a reminder that every child deserves a second chance and that the justice system should serve as a mechanism of support for their development, rather than being solely punitive.

At the launch ceremony, opening remarks were delivered by Donjeta Kelmendi from KOMF, Fjolla Hoxha from Terre des hommes, Arjeta Sadiku, Deputy Chairperson of the Kosovo Judicial Council, Agron Qalaj, Acting Chief State Prosecutor, and Naim Qelaj, Ombudsperson. The speakers emphasized the importance of a justice system that respects children’s rights, promotes rehabilitation, and ensures that every decision is guided by the best interests of the child.

The campaign aims to raise awareness among institutions, professionals, and the public about the importance of preventing children from becoming involved in conflict with the law, promoting the more effective use of diversion measures, and implementing international standards for child-friendly justice. Through this initiative, the goal is to ensure that every child in conflict with the law is treated with dignity, respect, and humanity, while taking into account their age, development, and individual needs.

A particular focus of the campaign is the promotion of alternatives to punitive measures by encouraging approaches that prioritize the rehabilitation, education, and reintegration of children into their families and communities. This approach contributes not only to the protection of children’s rights but also to reducing reoffending and creating opportunities for a safer and more promising future for children.

Through its planned activities, the campaign will promote inter-institutional cooperation, the exchange of good practices, and the strengthening of the professional capacities of all stakeholders working with children in conflict with the law. At the same time, it seeks to encourage a shift in public perception by viewing the child not through the mistake they have made, but through their potential for rehabilitation and successful reintegration into society.

“Justice that Sees the Child” is a call for a justice system that places the child at the centre of every decision, guarantees the protection of their rights, and creates real opportunities for development, rehabilitation, and a better future.