5 June 2013 - Seeking to improve delivery of justice for vulnerable groups, UNMISS concluded a two-day workshop for law enforcement institutions from Upper Nile and Unity states in Malakal today.

The workshop, organized with support from the UN Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC), discussed justice system challenges affecting vulnerable groups like children in conflict with the law, victims of gender-based violence and mentally ill people facing criminal charges.

"We examined the (current) legal framework for the protection of vulnerable groups ... and what we can do to effectively fill the gaps," said UNMISS Judicial Affairs Officer Cecilia Tillada. "We also looked (at) the role of justice institutions and other stakeholders in implementing the laws."

Participants, who included judges, prosecutors, advocates, legal advisors, representatives from the health sector, police, prison officers and social workers, also talked about measures that could be taken to strengthen coordination among institutions in delivery of justice for vulnerable groups.

"We should preserve the rights of women, especially in the areas of education, job opportunities, public participation and the right to choose a partner, and put an end to discrimination against women," said Shadia Mohamed Abdalla, a judge based in Upper Nile.

"There is no doubt that vulnerable groups deserve special care from (all) of us ... especially we as law implementers," said Unity State Judge Sebit Bullen.