The Maldives needs urgent reforms to its juvenile justice system to end the cycle of abuse where child victims become offenders, says First Lady Saajidha Mohamed.
She made the appeal at the opening of the National Juvenile Justice Conference on Saturday – a three-day annual conference organized by the Prosecutor General’s Office in collaboration with the United Nations International Children's Emergency Fund (UNICEF).
In her address, Sajidha said that many young offenders are victims long before entering the justice system.
She stressed the need to shift from punitive measures to child protection and early intervention.
Citing real cases, she described a 14-year-old boy arrested for murder who had 191 prior interactions with authorities, and a 15-year-old girl, prosecuted despite being a long-term victim of sexual abuse, later exonerated after public and international pressure.
These cases, she said, reflect systemic failures in child protection and early response.
First Lady Sajidha Mohamed attends the opening of the National Juvenile Justice Conference on May 10, 2025. (Photo/President's Office)
She called on schools, parents, and justice institutions to recognize warning signs and intervene early.
Saajidha also raised concerns about the Maldives’ high incarceration rate compared to neighboring countries, despite lower levels of violent crime.
She noted that youth crime and intergenerational trauma persist despite years of investment and policy development.
Urging a shift in mindset, she emphasized the importance of family involvement, particularly by fathers, and stronger coordination among institutions.
She challenged stakeholders to close the gaps that allow children to fall through the cracks and abusers to escape accountability.
She concluded her address by emphasizing the need for a justice system that protects, rehabilitates, and empowers children.