On February 12, 2026, the Argentine Chamber of Deputies passed a significant piece of legislation that lowers the age of criminal responsibility from 16 to 14 years. This proposal is part of a broader reform of the Juvenile Justice System and was approved with a vote of 149 to 100, receiving backing primarily from government-aligned parties, while leftist factions opposed it. The legislation still requires Senate approval and subsequent sanction by President Javier Milei before it can become law.

The push to amend the law was fueled by rising concerns over juvenile crimes following the shocking murder of a teenager in Santa Fé by three minors, which stirred national outrage and prompted the government to prioritize the issue in extraordinary legislative sessions. President Milei had initially advocated for an even lower age limit of 13 years but reconciled with his allied parties to set the new minimum at 14 years due to their reticence to go lower. This significant legislative change indicates a shift in the government’s approach to youth crime amidst increasing societal pressures.

As the bill moves to the Senate, it has sparked intense public and political debate regarding the implications for minors. Advocates argue that this reform could serve as a deterrent against youth crime and provide a stronger legal framework for accountability. However, opponents fear it may lead to the criminalization of younger individuals and question the adequacy of existing support systems for at-risk youth. The ongoing discourse surrounding this legislation reflects broader tensions in Argentine society concerning youth violence and appropriate justice reform.