UP Zambia:Free Legal & Social Support for Children
About
UP Zambia was founded in 2014 and is now entering it's 10th year of providing legal and social support to children in Zambia's criminal justice system. UP Zambia provides holistic services from a child's first contact at the police station, to court appearances, to post trial social services to help the child reintegrate. UP Zambia hopes to provide legal and social services to over 1000 children in 2024. Your support will help us meet the most urgent needs of children across Zambia.
Need
53% of Zambia's population is aged 18 and under with 54.9% of the children living in poor households. The vast majority of children in conflict with the law in Zambia cannot afford a lawyer, and legal aid resources are very limited. Children are often forced to defend themselves alone in court, lacking even a basic understanding of their rights and legal procedure. This can result in overly severe charges, one-sided trials, and weak convictions.
Long term impact
The services provided by the UP Zambia team are changing the way child justice is administered in Zambia. When a child's rights are defended in the justice process, government stakeholders are motivated to prioritize the implementation of child justice laws and processes across the nation. When a child receives both legal and social services when encountering the justice system, this supports a child's overall rehabilitation and reduces the chance a child will become a repeat offender.
About the Organization
To support juveniles in conflict with the law through legal representation, social support and advocacy for a restorative juvenile justice system.
GlobalGiving Categories:
- Justice and Human Rights
- Child Protection
- Mental Health
Total Goal
Remaining Goal
What is a Project?
Domestic and international programs and services housed within organizations, addressing specific needs of community groups.