The guidelines on child-friendly justice, and their explanatory memorandum,
were adopted by the Council of Europe in 2010. Based on existing international
and European standards, in particular the United Nations Convention
on the Rights of the Child and the European Convention on Human Rights,
the guidelines are designed to guarantee children's effective access to and
adequate treatment in justice. They apply to all the circumstances in which
children are likely, on any ground and in any capacity, to be in contact with
the criminal, civil or administrative justice system. They recall and promote
the principles of the best interests of the child, care and respect, participation,
equal treatment and the rule of law. The guidelines address issues such as information,
representation and participation rights, protection of privacy, safety, a
multidisciplinary approach and training, safeguards at all stages of proceedings
and deprivation of liberty.

The 47 Council of Europe member states are encouraged to adapt their
legal systems to the specific needs of children, bridging the gap between
internationally agreed principles and reality. To that end, the explanatory
memorandum offers examples of good practices and proposes solutions to
address and remedy legal and practical gaps in justice for children.

These guidelines form an integral part of the Council of Europe's strategy on
children's rights and its programme "Building a Europe for and with children".
A series of promotion, co-operation and monitoring activities are planned in
member states in view of ensuring effective implementation of the guidelines
for the benefit of all children.

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