A Critical Review of Policy Responses to Juvenile Delinquency in Ghana

Abstract

Crime is seen as unacceptable in society. It may be committed by children or adults. Children have rights and these rights are protected even when they are in conflict with the law. This is the reason for setting up juvenile justice administration. Globally the number of young people coming in conflict with the law is growing at a rapid rate. There is a question as to how these young people are dealt with by the justice delivery system. This study assesses the current policy responses to juvenile delinquency in Ghana to be able to identify gaps in delivery, ways in which the developmental needs of the juvenile can be met and also trace the history to provide basis for policy reform where necessary. The researcher used a qualitative approach, using in-depth interviews to collect primary data and a desk review to collect secondary data. Purposive sampling technique was used to obtain a sample of eighteen (18) from the population of inmates and juvenile justice administration officials. The data that were gathered were analysed manually. The study revealed that the juvenile justice system of Ghana has not had any major change since its inception and this calls for policy attention. The study also shows many delinquent acts are as a result of immoral things young people are exposed to, parents not having and spending time with their children and also parents‟ inability to provide the needs of their children. From the study, there are gaps in the implementation of juvenile justice policies. The administration is starved of funding. The welfare needs of juveniles are also not being met as they should because the administration is starved of funding. Thus, the study recommends, among others, the formulation of a juvenile justice policy and also for government to adequately fund the administration of juvenile justice in Ghana and also the inclusion of parents in the justice delivery process.