Finland Considers Lowering Age of Criminal Responsibility to 14
The Finnish Ministry of Justice has launched a fact-finding investigation into potentially lowering the age of criminal responsibility from 15 to 14, following a recent decision by Sweden. Currently, individuals under 15 in Finland are not held criminally responsible, with even serious offences addressed through child welfare measures instead of the justice system.
Justice Minister Leena Meri (Finns Party) announced the review, stating that Finland should take cues from Sweden’s approach to tackling juvenile delinquency. Yle reports that Meri highlighted Sweden’s decision last week to lower the age of criminal responsibility to 14 for serious crimes, expressing hope that Finland would adopt a similar model. The investigation is part of the Ministry of Justice’s official duties and is expected to conclude within the year (Yle).
The age of criminal responsibility determines whether a young offender’s actions are handled through child welfare or criminal justice procedures. Ilta-Sanomat notes that Meri emphasised the need for reform, citing a recent rise in violent acts and other serious crimes committed by individuals under 15 that have come to the attention of police. Both sources confirm that the ministry’s project aims to assess whether lowering the age limit would be an effective response to this trend.
