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Government pushes for stricter measures amid gang violence surge
Sweden plans to reduce the age of criminal responsibility from 15 to 13 for severe offenses, citing an urgent need to combat the exploitation of children by criminal networks. The proposal, set to take effect as early as summer 2026 if approved, targets crimes like murder, aggravated assault, and rape.
Justice Minister declares national emergency
Justice Minister Gunnar Strömmer framed the situation as an "emergency," emphasizing the government's priority to disrupt the recruitment of minors into gangs. "Stopping the use of children in criminal networks is a crucial task," he stated.
Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson echoed these concerns in September 2025, arguing that children are being "ruthlessly exploited" by organized crime. "To protect both these children and potential victims, we are taking strong action," he added.
Proposal draws sharp criticism from authorities
The plan has faced opposition from law enforcement, prosecutors, and prison officials. Critics warn it could backfire, pushing even younger children into criminal activity. The Swedish Police Authority cautioned in November that the change might lead to "significantly younger children" joining gangs.
The Prison and Probation Service also raised concerns, stating that incarcerating minors could violate children's rights and that alternative care systems would be more effective.
Debate intensifies ahead of parliamentary review
Fredrik Hjulström, a local authority reviewing the bill, dismissed it as lacking "factual arguments," telling Swedish broadcaster SVT that the focus should be on rehabilitation, not punishment. He suggested the proposal was politically motivated, with national elections looming in September 2026.
Lawyer Johan Eriksson acknowledged the need to address gang recruitment but argued that lowering the criminal age could worsen the problem. "The solution should not create more offenders," he said.
Crime data underscores rising youth involvement
Statistics from the Swedish National Council for Crime Prevention reveal a troubling trend: offenses linked to suspects under 15 have doubled over the past decade. The current government, elected in 2022, pledged to tackle organized crime, initially proposing to lower the age to 14 before settling on 13.
The bill will now be reviewed by Sweden's Council on Legislation before potential parliamentary approval.
