In a recent statement, a group of bishops from the Catholic Church in Argentina, including members of the Pastoral Social, Carcelaria, and Cáritas committees, have formally rejected the proposed legislation to lower the age of criminal responsibility. The bishops claimed that such a measure would not effectively address the root issues of crime and instead would exacerbate the existing problems. They argued that the push for this legislative change is driven by 'electoral opportunism' rather than sound policy-making, emphasizing the need for more substantial reforms.

The bishops highlighted the importance of focusing on mental health policies and education over punitive measures such as imprisonment for minors. They acknowledged that reform is necessary to align Argentina's laws with international commitments concerning the rights of minors, but they expressed concern about the tone of the current political climate. The church leaders noted that the discourse surrounding this issue often uses social pain for media impact, rather than fostering a constructive and compassionate discussion about the welfare of young people.

While some government officials have supported the initiative as a means to address rising juvenile crime, the Church's firm stance calls for a reevaluation of priorities. They argue for investment in supportive systems that can offer guidance and education to young individuals, ultimately seeking to reduce crime by preventing it at its roots rather than merely responding to it with harsher legal sentences.