In order to assist countries in implementing, at the national level, the provisions contained in the Guidelines and in other relevant international instruments, UNODC, in cooperation with the United Nations Children Fund (UNICEF) and the International Bureau for Children’s Rights, has developed the present Handbook for Professionals and Policymakers on the Guidelines on Justice in Matters  involving Child Victims and Witnesses of Crime.

The Handbook is based on international best practices in the treatment of child victims and witnesses of crime by the criminal justice system. It is intended  to serve as guidance for policymakers and professionals dealing with child  victims and witnesses of crime, such as judges, medical and support staff, law  enforcement officials, prosecutors, social workers, staff of non-governmental organizations and teachers.