Swedish Government Faces Overwhelming Opposition to Lowering Criminal Responsibility Age to 13

The Swedish government's proposal to lower the legal age of criminal responsibility from 15 to 13 for serious crimes has encountered widespread resistance from key institutions across the country. The plan, which includes establishing juvenile detention facilities by July 1 next year to accommodate such young offenders, has alarmed numerous authorities, raising concerns about its justification and potential consequences.

Out of 74 agencies consulted, 61 have either opposed or strongly criticized the government's initiative. This includes the Swedish Prosecutor's Office, law enforcement bodies, and the Swedish Prison and Probation Service, which has expressed doubts about their readiness to handle detainees as young as 13. The Swedish National Council for Crime Prevention (Brå) has also warned that this move conflicts with United Nations recommendations, which generally advise against reducing the age of criminal responsibility.

Critics highlight that lowering the age could be counterproductive, potentially fostering stronger identification with criminal behavior among younger children and leading to increased youth crime. The Justice Chancellor has underscored the risk that imprisoning 13-year-olds may exacerbate rather than deter criminal activity. Instead, opponents advocate for alternative solutions focused on victim restitution rather than jail time for minors.

This extensive opposition reflects deep skepticism toward the proposal’s rationale and potential societal impact. The consultation period for feedback on the reform closes at midnight, leaving significant uncertainty about its future. The government's determination to move forward despite strong dissent illustrates the contentious nature of the debate surrounding juvenile justice in Sweden.