| 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. |
