Summary of the project implemented by Association Roditelji
The project aims to improve child protection against sexual violence through an analysis of penal policy and judicial practice (2019–2024), the development of a case study, and recommendations for more effective institutional procedures. Additionally, through a media campaign, it raises awareness and sensitizes the judiciary and the public about victim protection. Expected outcomes include better legal protection for children, an increase in reported cases, and strengthened public trust in institutions. With this project, Association Roditelji continues its advocacy for a stronger legal framework and more effective child protection.
Project goals
General objective
Improving the judicial system in protecting minors from criminal offenses against sexual freedom, with a focus on this vulnerable social group.
Specific objectives
- Conducting a detailed analysis of the current penal policy and evaluating the practices of prosecutors and courts in handling cases of sexual violence against minors, aiming to identify key weaknesses and enhance the protection system.
- Developing recommendations to improve the judicial system, with a focus on safeguarding minors’ rights and security, and encouraging reforms that will ensure more effective prevention and prosecution of sexual offenses against minors.
- Raising awareness of victims’ rights and the importance of their protection through a media campaign.
Beneficiaries
Direct beneficiaries:
- Minors and their parents/guardians – Children and adolescents who are victims or potential victims of sexual violence, as well as their parents/guardians, who will have access to better legal protection and support.
- Judicial authorities – Judges, prosecutors, and lawyers involved in child protection procedures, who will receive recommendations and analyses to improve their work.
- Law enforcement authorities – Police and investigative bodies who will receive guidelines and recommendations for more efficient work in victim protection.
- Social work centers and NGOs – Organizations providing direct support to victims, through improved approaches and education.
Indirect beneficiaries:
- Healthcare workers – Doctors and psychologists who will be strengthened through the project to provide better support to victims.
- Educational institutions – Schools and kindergartens that will have greater capacity for prevention and educating children about sexual violence.
- The general public – Citizens will be made more aware through media campaigns about the importance of victim protection and the role of institutions in these processes.
Main activities
Analysis of Penal Policy and Judicial Practice
- Collection and analysis of data on verdicts for sexual offenses against minors in Montenegro.
- Comparison of judicial practices before and after the amendments to the Criminal Code.
Case Study Development
- Analysis of three specific cases of sexual violence against minors.
- Investigation of court, police, and institutional procedures in handling victims.
- Identification of key challenges in prosecuting these crimes.
Recommendations for Improving Child Protection
- Creation of a set of recommendations for courts and prosecutors based on the analysis and case study.
- Organization of a roundtable discussion with representatives from the judiciary, police, government, and NGOs.
- Media promotion of findings and recommendations.
Media Campaign on Victim Protection
- Raising awareness within the judiciary and the public on the importance of protecting victims.
- Development of video content and promotional materials in collaboration with media experts.
- Distribution of campaign materials via media and social networks throughout the project duration.
Related news:
Changes in the judiciary to more effective protection of children from sexual violence (Available in Montenegrin language)
(Available in Montenegrin language)
Video Story: Confession of a victim of sexual abuse (Available in Montenegrin language)
Publications:
CASE STUDY: Intitucional Response to Sex Violence Against Children (Available in Montenegrin language)
Analysis of criminal policy of Montenegrin courts in cases of criminal offenses against sexual freedom in which the victims are minors, for the period 2019-2024 (Available in Montenegrin language)