Summary
Sweden plans to change its law to make children as young as 13 responsible for serious crimes. The government is doing this because more young people are joining gangs and committing violent acts. There is opposition to the plan from various authorities who worry it might cause more harm.
Key Facts
- Sweden wants to lower the age of criminal responsibility from 15 to 13 for serious crimes.
- Crimes included are murder, attempted murder, bombings, weapons offenses, and rape.
- The proposal was made due to an increase in gang recruitment of young children.
- Some authorities, like police and prison officials, are against the change.
- Critics worry the change could lead to younger children getting involved in crime.
- The government seeks to stop children from being used by gangs for serious crimes.
- Sweden's Council on Legislation will review the proposed law.
