Chamber of Deputies reduces the age of accountability

The Chamber of Deputies of Argentina is advancing in the modification of the Juvenile Criminal Regime, reducing the age of accountability from 16 to 14 years amid political tensions.


Chamber of Deputies reduces the age of accountability

The Chamber of Deputies advanced in the debate on the modification of the Juvenile Penal Regime by proposing to reduce the age of criminal responsibility from 16 to 14 years. The discussion was marked by strong political and social tensions.

The report, supported by the national government and blocs such as PRO, UCR, Federal Innovation, the Civic Coalition, and some sectors of Federal Meeting, achieved a majority to advance the initiative. The project will focus on cases of serious crimes such as homicides, rapes, or armed robberies, making adolescents aged 14 and 15 liable.

On the other hand, Union for the Homeland, leftist parties, and human rights organizations expressed strong rejection of the proposal. They argued that this measure would criminalize youth and would not address the root causes of violence.