Criminal Law Reform and Anti-Human Trafficking
The ABA Rule of Law Initiative (ABA ROLI) implemented its juvenile justice program in Nicaragua from August 2010–October 2011. With support from the U.S. Department of State’s Bureau of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs, the program supported the development of a strategic plan for Nicaraguan juvenile justice procedures, including post-prison rehabilitation and reintegration. The Program analyzed Nicaragua’s current legal framework, as well as the local capacity to operate within that framework, to determine the country’s ability to effectively process juvenile justice cases. The analysis, which was subsequently published in November 2010 as the Assessment of Juvenile Justice in Nicaragua, formed the basis for targeted technical assistance, improved coordination through an inter-institutional working group and aided in the development of the strategic plan. Our program focused on preventing recidivism, especially among juveniles accused of minor crimes that overwhelmed the justice system. Furthermore, the program aimed to tackle juvenile delinquency by preventing offenses, re-socializing and reintegrating offenders and providing assistance to victims.