ASSESMENT OF OPPORTUNITIES AND CHALLENGES OF JUVENIE DELIQUENCY ; DIVERSION OF CHILDREN IN CONFLICT WITH THE LAW FROM FORMAL COURTS TO COMMUNITY POLICE CENTERS.

Abstract

The main objective of this study was to analyze the assessment of opportunities and challenges of juvenile delinquency: diversion of children in conflict with the law from formal courts to community policy centers. The study was conducted in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, at the Federal First Instance Court Lideta Juvenile Bench. The total population of the study was 80 young offenders, and all of them were considered in the sample of the study. In order to collect primary data, questionnaires were distributed to 80 young offender respondents who filled them out and replied to the whole sample. The findings of this study could potentially inform policymakers and stakeholders in developing more targeted and responsive strategies to address juvenile delinquency and improve the overall well-being of young offenders. In addition to this interview was conducted with 13 individuals of different stockholders, such as parents, judges, and community leaders. The source of data was mainly primary, and secondary sources were not used due to confidentiality reasons. This study employed both qualitative and quantitative research approaches through a descriptive research design to gather a comprehensive understanding of the issue at hand. Data collected through the questionnaire were carefully analyzed using the SPSS 20 version, allowing for a detailed examination of the responses. The result of the findings indicated a significant gap in the existing policies to manage young offenders, highlighting the need for a more cohesive approach among stakeholders. Furthermore, the lack of awareness and collaboration between different parties regarding the implementation of the diversion program was evident. In light of these findings, the researcher concludes that all stakeholders must come together and collaborate effectively to address the challenges and ensure the successful implementation of the diversion program. Expanding further on this issue, it is essential to note that the participants in the study provided valuable insights into the current state of affairs concerning young offenders. The inclusion of parents, judges, and child and women affaires experts in the interview process added depth and perspective to the research findings.