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The Implementation of International Standards in the Treatment of Juvenile Offenders in Vietnam

Journal of Social Sciences and Humanities
Vol.1 , No. 4, Publication Date: Jan. 19, 2019, Page: 125-136

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Authors

[1]	Pham Thi Thanh Nga, Department of Criminal Review, the Supreme Court, Hanoi, Vietnam.

Abstract

This article surveys how international standards for the treatment of juvenile offenders are being implemented in Vietnam. By using a combination of research methods, the author critically analyzes and evaluates legal documents, reports, statistics, surveys and court cases. Research indicates that Vietnam approaches international standards concerning the age of criminal responsibility, the purpose of juvenile justice, and the fair conduct of trials. Nevertheless, the most important criminal law documents, remained significant shortcomings, having no clear statements on fundamental principles of juvenile justice. Penalties and alternative measures applicable to juvenile criminals are limited, lacking various possible options for the court’s disposition. Termed imprisonment is the one penalty possible for offenders aged 14–15 years old. Hearing juvenile offenders in mobile trials completely conflicts with international standards. The implementation of the law concerning judicial staff and defense counsels showed problems. In the new laws, the Penal Code of 2015 (amended in 2017) and Criminal Procedure Code of 2015 – came into force on 01 January 2018 somehow address shortcomings of the Penal Code of 1999 and Criminal Procedure Code of 2003. It also requires more effort of authority to enhance the actual ability of the judicial system.

Keywords

Criminal Law, Child Protection, Juvenile Justice, Juvenile Offender, Vietnam

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