Case Studies - Meaningful participation and protection of child victims in criminal proceedings

This practical collection of case studies was developed by the Child Friendly Justice European Network (CFJ-EN) following its 2026 Summer School. Drawing on international and European child rights standards, the collection explores the diverse experiences of children who come into contact with criminal justice systems as victims of crime. Through realistic, practice-oriented scenarios, it invites professionals to examine barriers to the recognition, protection, support and meaningful participation of child victims, including those arising from intersecting vulnerabilities and individual circumstances. Designed for judges, prosecutors, lawyers, police officers, child protection and victim support professionals, policymakers, researchers, educators and civil society organisations, the case studies provide a practical basis for training, reflection and multidisciplinary learning, with concrete recommendations and resources to help strengthen child-centred justice responses.