The Legal System vs. The Child: Who Actually Wins?

What happens when a child comes into conflict with the law? In this episode of the RCC × UNICEF Podcast Series, Child Rights Ambassador Shannae Trotz sits down with Ms. Shaundell Shipley Deputy Director Juvenile Justice Department - Guyana to explore child-friendly justice, due process, rehabilitation, prevention, and the importance of supporting children to make positive changes. The conversation examines what due process means for children and why children in conflict with the law require fair treatment, legal protection, privacy, access to an attorney, the opportunity to be heard, and protection from being detained with adults. The discussion also looks beyond the justice system to the factors that can influence a child's behaviour, including parental supervision, peer influence, community and family violence, substance use, and the need for children to have safe spaces where they can be heard without judgment. In this episode, we discuss: 🔹 What due process means for children 🔹 Children's rights when they come into contact with the law 🔹 Why justice systems must be child-friendly 🔹 Rehabilitation versus punishment 🔹 Trauma-informed support and reintegration 🔹 The role of parents, schools and communities 🔹 Preventing children from entering the justice system 🔹 Peer pressure, gangs and the need for belonging 🔹 Substance use and other risk factors 🔹 Creating safe spaces where children can speak openly 🔹 Supporting children after they leave the justice system 🔹 Challenging the misconception that there are "bad" children 🔹 Building a more supportive and restorative approach to juvenile justice A powerful message from the conversation is that children make mistakes, but a mistake does not have to define their future. The discussion emphasizes the importance of rehabilitation, guidance, acceptance, compassion and opportunities for children to move forward. For young people who may feel hopeless after making a mistake, the message is clear: there is still hope, and there is always an opportunity to seek help, make positive changes and move forward. 🎥 Watch the full episode and join the conversation about building a justice system and communities that protect children's rights while helping young people reach their potential. RCC & Unicef Guyana & Suriname Podcast Series Subscribe for more episodes of Voices of Tomorrow and conversations focused on children, youth, and their rights. Tell us in the comments what legal or social topics you want us to cover next. #ChildFriendlyJustice #DueProcess #childrights #juvenilejustice #UNICEF #rccguyana #YouthJustice #rehabilitation#restorativejustice #ChildProtection #YouthEmpowerment #Guyana #podcastseries