‘Children Are Victims Before Offenders’: First Lady Demands Justice Reform
First Lady speaks at the Juvenile Justice Conference 2025 | Photo: President’s Office
First Lady Madam Sajidha Mohamed has called for urgent reform of the Maldives’ juvenile justice system, urging a shift from punitive measures to child protection and early intervention. Speaking at the National Juvenile Justice Conference 2025, she stressed the need to address the root causes of youth crime.
She highlighted that many young offenders are victims long before entering the justice system. 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.
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First Lady Madam @sajidhaamohamed attends the Juvenile Justice Conference, a pivotal event aimed at enhancing the juvenile justice system and protecting the rights of children. Held under the theme “Empowering Change: Advancing Juvenile Justice and Safeguarding Children’s… pic.twitter.com/vQVsv8AlID— The President's Office (@presidencymv) May 10, 2025
These cases, she said, reflect systemic failures in child protection and early response. She called on schools, parents, and justice institutions to recognise warning signs and intervene early.
The First Lady also raised concerns about the Maldives’ high incarceration rate compared to neighbouring 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 emphasised 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.
Her call was met with broad support from educators, legal professionals, and social service leaders, who echoed the need for a justice system that protects, rehabilitates, and empowers children.
