PHNOM PENH: The Minister of Justice has issued instructions on the procedures to be implemented for juvenile victims in criminal cases to ensure the proceedings protect the mental state of victims.

The Minister of Justice, Koeut Rith, stated in a guideline issued on 4 January 2023, that the Ministry of Justice has noted the efforts of judges and prosecutors in fulfilling their duties and responsibilities in resolving criminal cases in accordance with the provisions of the Criminal Procedure Code and related provisions, particularly to seek the truth and provide legal justice to the relevant parties, as well as to ensure the effective enforcement of the law.

He pointed out that some prosecution and judicial procedures have not yet appropriately addressed unique aspects of criminal cases, particularly those involving juvenile victims. This could compromise the efficiency of the fact-finding procedure and jeopardize the interests of young victims, who are protected by both national and international law.

The guidelines state that during the investigation, questioning, and trial of minors under 10 years old, prosecutors may visit the victim's residence to hear their answers as well as complete and carry out the other necessary procedures. They can also be accompanied or represented by a lawyer during the trial.

It should be noted that on 1 January 2023, Prime Minister Hun Sen advised the Ministry to consider not taking a female victim of abuse under the age of five to court, as the court process and having to face the abuser could traumatize the young victim further. This advice was made at the request of the President of AFESIP Cambodia.