Medidas de Protección para los Niños Víctimas: Un Enfoque Interamericano

This paper examines the recognition and implementation of protection measures for children and adolescents who are victims or witnesses of crimes, focusing on the Inter-American Human Rights System. It highlights the shift from perceiving children as passive recipients of protection to recognizing them as active rights holders. The research emphasizes the application of the Best Interest of the Child (BIC) principle, which mandates that judicial and administrative processes prioritize children’s well-being and prevent re-victimization. The document explores the evolving jurisprudence of the Inter-American Court of Human Rights regarding the definition of child victims and their right to protective measures. It underscores the importance of specialized procedures that ensure child-friendly justice, trauma-informed approaches, and due diligence in safeguarding children’s rights. In this document, are discussed key strategies for effective protection of children’s rights. These include judicial training on child-sensitive practices, structural integration models for coordinated protection services, and the creation of child friendly legal environments. By reinforcing these principles, the research advocates for a justice system that upholds the dignity and rights of child victims, ensuring their safety, emotional well-being, and meaningful participation in legal processes.