Terre des hommes appeals to the State Police and other law enforcement agencies to be guided by the principles of human rights protection and, in particular, the rights of the child, in all procedural acts related to minors who may have participated in recent protests in the country. Based on media reports and circulating film images, we are concerned by the violent behavior of police officers during the protests that have taken place during the last two days.
The use of violence is a totally unacceptable act and constitutes a violation of Article No. 54 of the Constitution of Albania. Furthermore, it is the duty of every state to ensure, to the maximum of its possibilities, the implementation of children's rights.
We urge the State Police and, in particular, the Juvenile Interview Unit, to implement the Law on the Protection and Rights of the Child, the Juvenile Criminal Justice Code, and all necessary procedures and protocols to minimize the number of juveniles escorted to police stations and prosecuted. Also, all necessary legal mechanisms for the proper interviewing of juveniles should be provided immediately by applying Article 18 of the Juvenile Justice Code, that is: in the presence of a psychologist, keeping juveniles in special facilities, and providing legal aid and psycho-social support at every stage of the juvenile's time in conflict with the law.
Communication with their parents or legal representatives should be carried out immediately, in order to ensure maximum physical and psychological well-being of these children and young people. We urge all law enforcement agencies to ensure, at all costs and in all circumstances, the implementation of the rights of children and young people in accordance with the provisions of national and international legislation for the protection of children.