In Argentina, there are currently 4,156 minors serving sentences, with many having dropped out of school and engaged in drug use prior to their incarceration. On February 12, the National Chamber of Deputies will debate a proposed reform of the juvenile criminal justice system, which includes a controversial measure to lower the age of criminal accountability from 16 to 13 years old. However, discussions are leaning towards a compromise that would set the age at 14 years instead.

This potential change is significant as it would mean that adolescents aged 14 and 15 who commit crimes could be held legally accountable, leading to the possibility of prosecution and sentencing of up to 15 years in prison. Advocates for the reform argue that it could deter juvenile crime and hold young offenders responsible for their actions, while opponents raise concerns about the implications for youth rehabilitation and the social factors contributing to youth crime.

The outcome of this legislative debate could have far-reaching implications not only for the legal system but also for society's approach to youth crime and rehabilitation. The proposed changes reflect a growing frustration with juvenile delinquency in Argentina and signal a potential shift towards a more punitive approach as opposed to focusing on preventive measures and support systems for at-risk youth.