The Argentine government led by Javier Milei has achieved preliminary approval in the Chamber of Deputies for a reform lowering the age of criminal responsibility to 14 years.
The administration of Javier Milei successfully secured preliminary approval from the Chamber of Deputies for a significant reform of the juvenile penal code, which proposes to lower the age of criminal liability from 16 to 14 years. The vote reached a total of 149 in favor and 100 against, reflecting a considerable division among lawmakers. This legislative advance is crucial as it is expected to pave the way for further discussions in the Senate, where the government aims to transform this initiative into law alongside other major projects like labor reform.
The passage of this reform indicates strong political maneuvering by Milei's coalition, La Libertad Avanza, which gained support from allies including the PRO party and other provincial blocs. However, there was notable contention surrounding the proposal's original stipulation to reduce the age to 13, which was rejected after pivotal negotiations led by Cristian Ritondo of the PRO. The party's insistence on sticking to a negotiated version that averted lowering the age beyond 14 showcases the complexities of political alliances and the legislative process in Argentina.
The implications of this reform extend beyond just legal thresholds, highlighting the broader agenda of the Milei administration aimed at addressing various social and legal issues. As the bill moves to the Senate, it represents a litmus test for the government's capacity to consolidate support for its ambitious legislative agenda. The ongoing debates and vote outcomes will be crucial in determining not only the fate of this reform but also the trajectory of future government initiatives in the current political landscape of Argentina.
