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Sweden Votes to Lower Criminal Responsibility Age to 14

8/14/2026

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Summary

Story summary

Sweden’s parliament voted Thursday to lower the age of criminal responsibility from 15 to 14, passing the amendment by 281 votes to 66.
The reform raises the maximum prison term for offenders under 18 from 14 to 18 years.
The law takes effect on 10 September 2026, days before the election.
A commissioner recommended the age be set at 14 while 126 groups including police and prison services opposed an age of 13.

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Story summary

Sweden’s parliament voted Thursday to lower the age of criminal responsibility from 15 to 14, passing the amendment by 281 votes to 66.
The reform raises the maximum prison term for offenders under 18 from 14 to 18 years.
The law takes effect on 10 September 2026, days before the election.
A commissioner recommended the age be set at 14 while 126 groups including police and prison services opposed an age of 13.