Pristina, 26th June 2026 – On the International Day Against Torture, the Ombudsperson, Mr. Naim Qelaj and the Director of the Mechanism Against Torture, Ms. Shqipe Ibraj Mala visited the Correctional Educational Center for Juveniles in Lipjan. They were received by the director of the center, Mr. Fitim Bërbatovci, and they discussed the conditions and challenges at work.

On this occasion, the Ombudsperson emphasized that every juvenile deprived of liberty must be treated with respect, humanity and in accordance with national and international human rights standards.

He further added that when the state deprives a juvenile of liberty, it not only assumes responsibility for his or her safety, but also an increased obligation to protect, educate and rehabilitate him or her.

Any form of torture, violence or degrading treatment of juveniles is not only a violation of human rights, but also a failure of the state to fulfill its highest obligations towards children.