During Karen’s recent trip to Cambodia we spent an afternoon in Kandal prison with the purpose of meeting all the female and juvenile prisoners. It was a privilege to visit Kandal prison with both Karen and Vandeth, a place Karen first worked back in 1994.

There were some shocking tales as well as some stories of hope. The youngest juvenile prisoner we met was a 14-year-old boy, Sophea. He had been in prison for over one month without the knowledge of his legal rights, or his right to a lawyer. What is most disturbing is the fact that, given his age, Sophea was likely sacrificed to the justice system to resolve a dispute between two families – a frighteningly common practice in Cambodia. Furthermore, under Cambodia law a trial cannot proceed for juvenile cases without a lawyer. Without IBJ’s intervention Sophea would have remained unrepresented and in detention for months, unable to attend school. It is likely that he would have only been appointed a lawyer at the final stage of the legal process, leaving very little opportunity to investigate the facts of the case or establish innocence. Without a lawyer Sophea’s case would be delayed, making him particularly vulnerable to excessive pre-trial detention. After our visit to the prison, Sophea now has been assigned a lawyer, a voice to advocate on his behalf and more importantly provide him with hope.

What was really special about the day was Karen’s energy that resulted in the most beautiful smiles and a room full of laughter. It was great to see the young boys return to their youthful playfulness and the women laughing and clapping. These moments of joy were a stark contrast to our surroundings. Vandeth’s hard work and Karen’s tenacity is an example of how IBJ provides hope. Their humbling but inspirational belief that we can and will succeed was shown in every smile and heard through every laugh. The impact and hope that IBJ brings to people lost in the darkest parts of the prison system was truly moving.

* Kate Flower is a volunteer with the Australian Youth Ambassadors for Development (AYAD) Program. The AYAD Program is part of Australian Volunteers for International Development, an Australian Government, AusAID initiative.