Annual Report 2023
06
Children
In 2023, amidst a post-pandemic landscape characterized by a general relaxation of restrictions, a concerning rise in violence within detention settings was observed across numerous countries. This shift reflected a trend towards more security-focused approaches, often at the expense of education and rehabilitation efforts.
Togo
In Togo, our member organisation, CACIT, conducted regular monitoring visits and uncovered severe cases of torture involving five children at the newly established juvenile detention centre in Lomé. These cases were promptly documented and reported to the authorities for action.
Brazil
In Brazil, OMCT and GAJOP collaborated on an alternative report submitted to the CAT in March 2023, highlighting instances of torture and ill-treatment of children in detention facilities. Consequently, the CAT issued a priority recommendation urging the government to address issues such as severe overcrowding, poor living conditions, sanitation, safety, education and the separation of children from adults in detention.
Honduras
In Honduras, our SOS-Network member CPTRT conducted 15 visits to children's detention centres and police stations, uncovering 16 cases of torture and ill-treatment. This information formed the basis of a joint alternative report to the Committee on the Rights of the Child, exposing the repressive incarceration system and dire detention conditions. Efforts were made to train prison staff, guards, and children on child rights and the prohibition of torture.
Georgia and Armenia
In 2023, we submitted two joint reports on Georgia and Armenia to the UN Committee on the Rights of the Child. This was followed by an advocacy mission to Georgia.
Philippines
In the Philippines, our partner CLRDC provided legal assistance resulting in the release of 14 children, while documenting 22 cases of child torture. Extrajudicial killings of children persist, with 20 cases documented by CLRDC in Caloocan and Manila alone.
Nepal
In Nepal, over 80 children detained in correctional homes received comprehensive support from OMCT and its partner Advocacy Forum Nepal. This led to legal assistance that facilitated the release of 20 children from the justice system. Moreover, efforts were made to challenge the detention of children for minor offences, such as the successful release of two girls accused of theft.
Benin
In Benin, civil society organisations have been facing ongoing restrictions on access to detention facilities since the onset of the Covid-19 pandemic, prompting joint advocacy efforts by ESAM and OMCT.
Uruguay
Similarly, in Uruguay, SERPAJ and OMCT challenged new access restrictions imposed by authorities through an administrative appeal.