Chihuahua's Civic Justice Model Gains National Spotlight

The municipal government of Chihuahua, Mexico, has implemented a new Civic Justice Model that operates the country's only adolescent civic court. The court prioritises prevention, family involvement and restorative measures instead of traditional sanctions for minors who commit administrative offences.

The program, run through the Department of Psychology and Follow‑up of the Municipal Public Security Directorate, involves parents or guardians in hearings and offers alternatives such as psychological counselling, community service and job‑training. Since its launch, roughly 18,000 adolescents and adults have benefited from these measures, coordinated with civil‑society organisations.

Municipal officials say the model demonstrates a commitment to strengthening a justice system that focuses on early intervention and the broader family environment, positioning Chihuahua as a reference point for similar initiatives nationwide.