Persistent armed conflict and violence, poverty, displacement and the increasing prevalence of crime have exposed young people to a higher than usual risk of coming in conflict with the law at various levels. Although the establishment of the juvenile justice system has a long history in Iraq, and many of the laws governing child protection, criminal procedure and the reformation system are quite progressive, effective implementation remains poor, safeguards nearly non-existent and abuses are rampant. The system remains focused on institutionalization of juveniles rather than rehabilitating and reintegrating them into the community. Torture of criminal suspects, including juveniles, is frequent. Juvenile justice in Iraq has maintained a focus on institutions and residential care, and as crime increases, the public stigmatizes and blames juvenile offenders, particularly street children. In this context, Heartland Alliance advocates for restorative justice, de-institutionalization as well as family and community based reintegration of children including alternatives to procedures in the Penal Law.  

In support of juveniles in the criminal justice system in Iraq, Heartland Alliance is working to provide support for Institutionalized Persons.