Submitted by Louise on
This report is part of CRIN's access to justice for children project, looking at the status of the Convention on the Rights of the Child (CRC) in national law, the status of children involved in legal proceedings, the legal means to challenge violations of children’s rights and the practical considerations involved in challenging violations.
Benin has ratified the CRC, which forms part of national law. Children do not have legal standing before courts and can only bring cases to court through their parent or guardian. The right of children to be heard in matters relating to their best interest is guaranteed by Benin's Child Code. Legal aid is not available to bring cases challenging children rights' violations, but minors in conflict with the law are entitled to legal counsel, although there appear to be a shortage of court appointed lawyers. Finally, the Constitutional Court has jurisdiction to review cases of human rights violations.
