The Impact of International Law on Juvenile Justice Systems: A Comparative Study Examining The Influence of International Law on Juvenile Justice Systems in Different Countries

Abstract

This research explores the impact of international law on juvenile justice systems through a comparative analysis of selected countries. By examining key international legal instruments such as the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child (UNCRC), the Beijing Rules, and other relevant frameworks, the study investigates how global norms and standards have shaped national juvenile justice legislation, policies, and practices. The research highlights both convergence and divergence in the implementation of international standards across jurisdictions, focusing on areas such as minimum age of criminal responsibility, due process rights, detention practices, and rehabilitation approaches. Through case studies of countries representing diverse legal traditions and levels of development, the paper identifies factors that facilitate or hinder the incorporation of international law into domestic juvenile justice systems. It also assesses the effectiveness of international monitoring mechanisms in promoting compliance. The study reveals that while many countries have reformed their juvenile justice systems to align with international standards, gaps remain in practice due to cultural, political, and institutional constraints. The findings contribute to understanding the role of international law in shaping equitable and child-centered justice systems and offer recommendations for strengthening global and national efforts toward juvenile justice reform.