History

Children are one of the most vulnerable groups in Cambodian society since they can least defend themselves. In addition to such various problems as poverty, malnutrition, education and health care, an increasing number of Cambodian children are at risk or have become victims of violence, crimes and various other forms of abuses. Because of the law enforcement officials’ lack of the knowledge and understanding of the law and the corruption in the system, many children had to suffer and experienc injustice.

It is with the above-mentioned problems and concerns that the Protection of Juvenile Justice (PJJ) was created in order to focus on the more critical issues affecting children, particularly children in conflict with the law. PJJ seeks to protect the rights of children, and stands prepared to defend abused children through all stages of legal process. In addition, PJJ aims to assist in the construction of a legal system based on principles of equal justice and the rules of law.

The Protection Juvenile Justice (PJJ) was established and officially recognized in 2003 by the Council of Ministers and Ministry of Interior of the Kingdom of Cambodia as a non-profit, non-partisan, Khmer-administered, local non-governmental organization. PJJ is staffed by a professional team of Cambodian lawyers with specialties in child-related issues and legal training. Founder of PJJ, who is also a lawyer, is an expert in child rights issues and led the PJJ team then. He served as director of NGO Committee for the Rights of the Child (NGOCRC) for four years. He volunteered to start and run PJJ in 2001 with support from the team of volunteer lawyers who were dedicated to servicing children in Cambodia free of charge so that they would receive fair and proper treatment in both criminal and civil matters.

Starting with only one office in Battambang province, PJJ currently possesses three permanent offices, namely, Phnom Penh, Battambang, and Siem Reap which cover the activities in all 24 provinces in Cambodia.

As PJJ continues to exist and grow when funding is possible, it intends to expand its activities on a nationwide basis. PJJ works closely with municipal and provincial courts of all levels, and other relevant organization. It receives active support from the Royal Government of Cambodia, and the various other local and international organizations.