The Swedish government is advancing controversial legislation to reduce the age of criminal responsibility from 15 to 13 for severe offenses, responding to what Justice Minister Gunnar Strommer characterizes as an ’emergency situation’ with criminal networks exploiting minors. The proposed measure specifically targets grave crimes including murder, attempted murder, aggravated bombings, serious weapons offenses, and aggravated rape, with potential prison sentences for convicted offenders.
This initiative follows alarming data from the Swedish National Council for Crime Prevention showing a doubling in offenses linked to suspects under 15 over the past decade. The center-right government, elected in 2022 on an anti-crime platform, had previously considered lowering the age to 14 based on a 2023 inquiry before opting for the more drastic reduction to 13.
Despite government assertions that the measure addresses ‘cynical exploitation’ of children by gangs, the proposal faces substantial opposition from law enforcement, judicial, and child welfare authorities. Critics including police, prison officials, and prosecutors warn the change might inadvertently draw even younger children into criminality. The prison and probation service expressed concerns about detention facilities being ill-equipped for juvenile offenders and potential violations of children’s rights.
The legislation has sparked heated debate about appropriate responses to youth criminality. Opponents like local authority head Fredrik Hjulström argue the proposal lacks factual foundation and represents political maneuvering ahead of September’s general election, advocating for care-based approaches instead of punishment. Lawyer Johan Eriksson concurred that while intervention is necessary, lowering the age threshold might produce counterproductive outcomes.
The bill now proceeds to Sweden’s Council on Legislation for review before parliamentary consideration, with potential implementation as early as summer 2024 if approved.