Stockholm, Sweden – The Swedish government is pressing ahead with plans to lower the age of criminal responsibility from 15 to 13 in serious cases, a move aimed at curbing the growing recruitment of children into criminal gangs.
Justice Minister Gunnar Strömmer described the situation as an “emergency,” stressing that stopping the use of children in criminal networks is a “crucial task” for the government.
The Proposal
If passed, the legislation could take effect as early as this summer. Strömmer emphasized that the measure does not amount to a general lowering of the age of criminal responsibility, but would apply only to the most serious crimes, including:
- Murder and attempted murder
- Aggravated bombings
- Aggravated weapons offences
- Aggravated rape
Under the proposal, offenders as young as 13 could face prison sentences in certain cases.
Rising Youth Crime
Data from the Swedish National Council for Crime Prevention shows that offences linked to suspects under 15 have doubled over the past decade, underscoring the urgency of the government’s push.
Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson, who came to power in 2022 vowing to crack down on organised crime, confirmed last September that the age would be lowered. He argued that children are “being ruthlessly exploited by criminal networks to commit serious crimes.”
“Both to protect these children and their potential victims, the government is taking strong action against this type of cynical exploitation,” Kristersson said.
Criticism and Opposition
Despite government assurances, the proposal has faced strong opposition from police, prosecutors, and prison officials. Critics warn that the change could inadvertently draw even younger children into criminal activity.
- The police authority cautioned that lowering the age risks “significantly younger children” becoming offenders.
- The prison and probation service argued that Sweden’s system is not equipped to handle such young offenders and that detaining them could breach children’s rights.
- Several groups have called for alternative approaches, emphasizing care and rehabilitation rather than punishment.
Local authority head Fredrik Hjulström, who is reviewing the proposal, said the bill contained “no factual arguments” and accused the government of scoring political points ahead of the September general election.
Lawyer Johan Eriksson echoed concerns, noting that while action must be taken to prevent gang recruitment, lowering the age of criminal responsibility could have the opposite effect.
Next Steps
The bill will now be sent to Sweden’s Council on Legislation, which reviews government proposals before they are presented to parliament.
Conclusion
Sweden’s plan to lower the age of criminal responsibility highlights the tension between tackling organised crime and safeguarding children’s rights. While the government insists the measure is necessary to protect vulnerable youth from exploitation, critics argue it risks deepening the problem. The debate is set to intensify as the country heads toward elections later this year.
