Responsibility and Professional Accountability in Juvenile Criminal Proceedings to Ensure the Child's Best Interests. an Exploratory Investigation between Italy and Northern Ireland

The professionals' role in the juvenile justice system, including judges, lawyers, social workers, and other practitioners, is crucial in ensuring that the "best interest of the child" remains central in decision-making processes. This research adopts a comparative perspective to examine the professional responsibilities and accountability of these key actors in Italy and Northern Ireland. Through interviews with legal practitioners and social workers, the study explores how different perceptions, practices, and principles impact decisions involving minors and how these roles contribute to shaping interventions within the justice system.

By comparing these two national contexts, the study identifies key similarities and differences in how professionals navigate their responsibilities, emphasizing their role in balancing public safety, rehabilitation, and children’s rights protection. The analysis also explores the challenges professionals face in safeguarding minors' rights and well-being amid evolving legal frameworks, resource limitations, and societal expectations.

This research provides valuable insights into how a child-centred approach can transform the quality of interventions in the juvenile justice system. It also offers critical reflections on best practices and areas for improvement, contributing to a better understanding of how strategies for supporting vulnerable youth are implemented effectively, proportionately, and with a rights-based approach.

This exploratory study aims to offer critical insights into how a child-centred approach can enhance the quality of decision-making and interventions in the juvenile justice system. It intends to contribute to the development of best practices and identify areas for improvement, supporting a more effective and rights-based approach to juvenile justice.