Muhammad Qodri Hamid; Ira Fadia Fajar; Wirdatul Jannah; Uut Rahayuningsih
The distribution and abuse of narcotics among children has become an increasingly alarming issue in Indonesia. Children are not only victims but also become perpetrators within drug networks. Law enforcement practices often neglect the principles of restorative justice and child protection, and are still not fully accompanied by adequate understanding and implementation by law enforcement officers. In addition, social stigma toward children involved in narcotics cases presents a major obstacle in their rehabilitation and social reintegration processes. This paper adopts a juridical and sociological approach to examine legal practices and the social impact experienced by child offenders of narcotics, while offering holistic solutions involving synergy between the legal system, families, and society. The findings emphasize the need to enhance the capacity of law enforcement, establish child-specific rehabilitation centers, and promote public education to eliminate the persistent negative stigma.