Submitted by Denitsa 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.
Cote D’Ivoire has signed and ratified the CRC, which takes precedence over national law. However, there is no single piece of legislation that implements the Convention into national law, nor is there any comprehensive code on the rights of the child. Children must be represented by a parent, guardian or court-appointed representative in all proceedings. Legal assistance is available, in theory, but in practice does not appear to be provided. The cost of legal assistance is often an insurmountable barrier for children claimants. Challenges to violations can be brought at various levels within the court system, and cases may be brought by an NGO. There are various regional mechanisms available if all national remedies have been exhausted. There is a high level of impunity for government officials, and severe difficulties in enforcing court decisions.
