Stockholm’s Swedish Church, led by Bishop Andreas Holmberg, joined other groups Monday in nationwide protests against a government proposal to lower the age of criminal responsibility to 13 for serious crimes.
Opposition to Proposed Law
The government’s plan to potentially imprison 13-year-olds has drawn criticism from numerous experts. Protests took place across the country, organized by the Swedish Church alongside organizations like Rädda Barnen (Save the Children) and Bris, both dedicated to children’s rights.
Bishop Holmberg stated the Church agrees with the government that society must take responsibility for children who commit serious crimes, such as murder. However, he emphasized that research does not support imprisonment as the appropriate solution for young offenders.
Fackförbunden Vision and Akademikerförbundet SSR, both labor unions, also participated in the protests. Bishop Holmberg urged members of the Swedish Parliament to vote against the proposal.
The proposal, supported by the government and Sverigedemokraterna, would change the age from 15 to 13 for children committing serious crimes. If approved by the Parliament, the new age would take effect in July of this year.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the government proposing?
The government and Sverigedemokraterna are proposing to lower the age at which children can be sentenced to prison from 15 to 13 years traditional for serious crimes, such as murder.
Who is protesting the proposal?
The Swedish Church, led by Bishop Andreas Holmberg, Rädda Barnen, Bris, Vision and Akademikerförbundet SSR are among the groups protesting the proposal.
When will the Parliament vote on this issue?
The Swedish Parliament is scheduled to vote on the proposal on June 3.
As the debate continues, what role should rehabilitation play in addressing juvenile crime?
