Sweden Moves to Lower Criminal Responsibility Age to 13

Sweden is set to lower the age of criminal responsibility to 13 for serious offences, a significant and controversial shift in the country’s justice policy aimed at addressing rising youth crime and gang-related violence.

Government officials said the reform targets grave crimes, including violent and organised criminal activities, where authorities argue younger offenders have increasingly been involved. The proposal reflects growing concern within Sweden over the changing nature of criminal networks and their alleged recruitment of minors.

Under the planned rule, children as young as 13 could face criminal prosecution and custodial measures for specified serious offences. Supporters of the policy say it will strengthen law enforcement’s ability to deter criminal exploitation of minors and improve public safety.

However, the initiative has sparked debate among legal experts, child rights advocates, and social policy groups. Critics warn that lowering the age threshold could undermine rehabilitation principles traditionally central to Sweden’s juvenile justice system and risk long-term social consequences.

Swedish authorities maintain that the reform will be accompanied by safeguards, including tailored legal procedures and enhanced social support mechanisms. Officials emphasise that the intention is not punitive but preventive, seeking to intervene earlier in severe cases.

The move comes amid broader European discussions on youth crime, with several countries reassessing legal frameworks in response to evolving security challenges. Analysts note that Sweden’s decision is likely to draw continued scrutiny both domestically and internationally.

If implemented, the measure would mark one of the most notable changes to Sweden’s criminal justice policies in recent years, reshaping how the legal system handles serious offences involving minors.