198. Juvenile delinquency is a critical issue that requires speedy reform of the juvenile justice system in the country. In past years there has been rapid increase in the cases of substance abuse and gang violence. Discussions held with relevant stakeholders revealed that some reasons why juveniles come in conflict with the law are related to issues of educational system, negative peer pressure, parenting issues and parental neglect, congested housing, lack of knowledge of legislations, mental health issues, involvement in gangs and becoming victims of organized crimes, lack of recreational facilities and lack of job opportunities. The JJU’s report published in year 2011 indicated that the most number of cases submitted were pertaining to 17 year olds, even though the average age of juvenile delinquents ranges from 16 to 18 years. An important finding is that 43 percent of the cases of children in conflict with the law were from broken homes, while 6 percent were children born out of wedlock. In addition, it was reported that the girls in conflict with the law were also involved in crimes such as substance abuse and sexual misconduct. 200. The new Drug Act (17/2011) is considered a milestone achieved in guaranteeing the rehabilitation and the treatment the drug abuser requires. This act gives prominence to treatment; distinction can be made amongst drug abusers and drug traffickers. A helpline was also launched in 2011, targeting general community specially drug users. The ratification of this law has paved way to establish a Drug Court in the country, although this court is not fully functional yet. Important to note that prompt measures need to implemented in the area of drug prevention. 201. State should take swift measures to implement the provisions in the Drug Act as drug abuse is one of the pressing issues in among juvenile offenders. Since the present basis for harsh sentencing is derived from the current Penal Code, it is imperative that the Penal Code reflect particular provisions for juvenile justice in accordance with international human rights principles. Chapter: Article 24: Rights of the Child 199. Some of the existing gaps in the juvenile justice system of the Maldives include; lack of detention facilities for children in conflict with the law, minimal or no formal recognition of community rehabilitation during and after detention (rehabilitation opportunities are guaranteed for drug offences). There is a correctional training centre for boys established in 2009 with the objective of offering life skills programs and vocational training. However, there are no such facilities for girls. It is also significant to note that there are insufficient trained staffs to deal with the child offenders, as well as weak coordination between rehabilitation and criminal justice system. In addition, societal attitudes towards these juveniles needs to be changed in order to successfully reintegrate them to the society. 77