Four-Way Memorandum of Understanding Signed to Ensure Early Legal Representation for Children in Conflict with the Law
Ramallah — In a major step toward strengthening juvenile justice in Palestine, the Office of the Attorney General, represented by H.E. Attorney General Akram Khatib, the Palestinian Police, represented by Police Chief Maj. Gen. Alaa Shakaa, the Palestinian Bar Association, represented by President Fadi Abbas, and the Ministry of Social Development, represented by Deputy Minister Mr. Taha Al-Irani, signed a joint Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on Monday at the Attorney General’s Office in Ramallah. The ceremony was attended by the Head of the EU Police and Rule of Law Mission for the Palestinian Territories (EUPOL COPPS), Ms. Karin Limdal, and Mr. Simon Ridley, Director of the Sawasya III Programme.
The MoU aims to institutionalize early legal representation for children during the preliminary stages of investigation and reaffirms the central role of Child Protection Counselors in ensuring rights-based procedures that prioritize the best interests of the child. It also underscores the importance of upholding confidentiality and privacy in all child-related legal procedures.
In his remarks, Attorney General Khatib emphasized that this agreement marks a significant step toward child-friendly justice, particularly under the challenging circumstances facing Palestinian society. He noted that the Public Prosecution remains committed to expanding partnerships with law enforcement and civil society to ensure meaningful, early legal protection for children in line with international standards. He stressed the need for all involved parties to participate in specialized training programs.
Maj. Gen. Alaa Shakaa affirmed that police coordination with the Attorney General’s Office and justice sector partners strengthens the rule of law and promotes a child-sensitive policing environment. He reiterated the police's commitment to enhancing staff capacities to ensure procedural safeguards are upheld from arrest through all legal stages, while protecting the child from any form of harm.
Deputy Minister Taha Al-Irani stated that the agreement builds on the Ministry of Social Development’s leading role in child protection, particularly for children in contact with the law. He emphasized the Ministry's efforts to expand the presence and effectiveness of Child Protection Counselors and to uphold the psychological and developmental needs of children, with the best interest of the child as a guiding principle.
President of the Bar Association, Mr. Fadi Abbas, affirmed that early legal representation is not only a legal entitlement but also a moral and societal obligation given the vulnerable status of children. He described the MoU as a national consensus toward a more just and humane justice system for children and affirmed the Bar Association’s commitment to deploying qualified lawyers to support this effort.
Ms. Karin Limdal, Head of EUPOL COPPS, expressed her pride in supporting the initiative, noting that early legal representation is fundamental to building a fair and equitable juvenile justice system.
Mr. Simon Ridley, Director of Sawasya III, commended Palestine’s leadership in advancing juvenile justice globally and reiterated the program’s ongoing technical support to justice institutions. He emphasized that investing in children's rights and early legal support is an investment in the future of justice.
All parties reaffirmed their commitment to upholding the best interest of the child as a fundamental principle in all legal and procedural matters, aligning with national legislation and international obligations. They also agreed on the importance of enhancing institutional frameworks, strengthening the capacity of professionals working with children, and fostering a cohesive legal environment that ensures children's rights and dignity are protected.
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