This document includes a summary of what was discussed and by whom, on the 30th September 2011, by the Committee on the Rights of a Child with regard to children of imprisoned parents.
The days discussions went along two main lines: "babies and children living with or visiting a parent in prison" and the rights of 'children left outside when their parent is incarcerated'. The key points of discussion: the impact of a parent's involvement in all stages of the criminal justice system on their children (from arrest to reintegration); the general impact of parental imprisonment on a child's life; and coping with a parent in cases involving the death penalty. Recommendations around alternatives to detention, effects of incarceration of parents on children, children's right to development and non-discrimination, right to privacy, family issues, respect for the views of the child, alternative care, finances, information sharing, alternative means of communication and training of professionals are made.
Read the committee's full report and recommendations below:
