When one thinks about Pakistan, the vision of angry protesters shouting about the United Nation killing Pakistani military personal, or U.S. efforts to form a stronger bond with the country might come to mind. Foreign policy might between the U.S. and Pakistan is a key issue these days, and while there are disagreements on both sides, the two countries have at least one goal in common - how to prevent young people from becoming a part of the criminal justice system. According to the news source dawn.com, eighty percent of Pakistani street children become criminals at an early age.
Although Pakistan has laws regarding juveniles, many times the laws are not being used to protect and aid children charged with crimes. Providing specialized cells designed for youth, establishing “Youthful Offenders Schools,” and hiring more probation and parole officers are some of the things the Pakistani government is doing to improve the lives of those in the country’s juvenile justice system. Issues experienced by young females who commit crimes are also being addressed.
While the Pakistani government examines ways to prevent young people from being incarcerated, it is also calling on community organizations to do their part. Despite the political turmoil that sometimes disrupts the country, a call to action to all those concerned about the welfare of Pakistan’s youth has been sounded. Like America, Pakistan appears to realize that children are the most precious resource of any country.
Source: Dawn.com
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