In a controversial move, Sweden's right-wing minority government has lowered the age of criminal responsibility from 15 to 13 years, a decision aimed at combating rising crime rates largely attributed to organized gang violence. The government, supported by the far-right Sweden Democrats, revealed this plan in January amid rising concerns over youth involvement in serious crimes such as bombings and shootings. This change has been met with criticism from over two-thirds of the 126 governmental agencies consulted, including law enforcement and prison services, who voiced concerns over the implications of targeting younger individuals for criminal charges.

The decision arises against the backdrop of Sweden grappling with a persistent wave of violent crime, often linked to rival gangs fighting for territory and control over the drug market. These gangs have increasingly exploited the legal loophole regarding the age of criminal responsibility, recruiting minors under 15 years to carry out violent acts without fear of severe legal consequences. This not only raises moral questions about prosecuting children as adults but also highlights the challenges faced by societal institutions in addressing the root causes of such criminal behavior and their effectiveness in mitigating youth crime.

In response to this shift in policy, eight existing prisons have been tasked with preparing specialized sections for children, indicating a significant change in the approach towards juvenile offenders. The new rules point to a broader crackdown on crime, but they also raise concerns regarding the welfare and rehabilitation of young offenders, who may not receive the appropriate support to reintegrate into society. As Sweden navigates this controversial policy shift, it reflects the increasing tensions between public safety measures and the protection of youth rights in the face of complex social issues.