Summary
El Salvador will allow life sentences for children as young as 12 years old for serious crimes like murder, terrorism, or rape. This law is part of strict policies to fight gang violence and will start on April 26, but it has raised concerns from groups like UNICEF about the impact on children's rights.
Key Facts
- The new law permits life imprisonment for minors aged 12 and older for serious crimes.
- The law takes effect on April 26, 2024.
- The change is part of tough government policies targeting gang violence in El Salvador.
- Since March 2022, a state of emergency has allowed mass arrests and increased police powers.
- Over 90,000 people are imprisoned, with some held without charges and others facing mass trials.
- The law was passed after a constitutional amendment supported by President Nayib Bukele and his party.
- UNICEF and the UN have expressed deep concern about sentencing children to life in prison, citing risks to their development.
- Human rights groups accuse the government of committing widespread abuses during the state of emergency, including imprisoning innocent people.
