<![CDATA[The imposition of criminal sanctions on children in conflict with the law requires a different approach from the sentencing of adults because children are still undergoing physical, psychological, moral, and social development. Law Number 11 of 2012 concerning the Juvenile Criminal Justice System has established diversion, restorative justice, and the principle of the best interests of the child as important foundations in handling juvenile cases. Nevertheless, the application of sanctions in practice still faces challenges because the determination of sanctions is not always sufficiently individualized according to the child's personal circumstances and developmental needs. This study aims to analyze the concept of individualization of criminal sanctions for children in conflict with the law and formulate an appropriate sanction model based on the best interests of the child. This research employs a normative juridical method with an analytical-prescriptive character, using a statute approach, case approach, and conceptual approach. Legal materials are analyzed qualitatively through deductive reasoning. The results demonstrate that individualization of juvenile sanctions requires consideration of factors beyond the legal classification of the offense, including the child's age, psychological and cognitive development, motive, role in the offense, family environment, educational background, impact on the victim, and rehabilitation potential. The best-interests principle requires judges and law enforcement authorities to place rehabilitation and social reintegration as central objectives while maintaining proportionality and accountability. Therefore, an individualized sanction model should be developed through a tiered framework that prioritizes diversion and community-based measures, followed by educational, supervisory, and rehabilitative sanctions, while imprisonment remains an exceptional measure. Strengthening assessment mechanisms, professional capacity, institutional cooperation, and judicial guidelines is necessary to ensure consistent implementation.]]>
