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.
Lesotho has ratified the CRC which has been partially incorporated through national legislation. The Convention does not however have the force of law and is not directly enforceable. Nonetheless, it may be referred to as a persuasive authority. Children in Lesotho may raise certain actions before the Children’s Court, although it is likely that representation is required in all civil cases. Legal aid is available to indigent applicants. Children may give evidence in court, however, their testimony needs to be corroborated. The Ombudsman receives complaints in relation to violations of children’s rights by public officials. Individual communications from Lesotho may also be submitted to the African Committee of Experts on the Rights and Welfare of the Child as well as to the African Commission on Human and Peoples’ Rights.
