Russia has announced sweeping legal reforms aimed at enhancing national security by tightening penalties for terrorism and sabotage offenses committed by minors. One of the most significant changes involves lowering the age of criminal responsibility for such crimes from 16 to 14 years old, a move that has sparked both public debate and legal discussion within the country.
The new measures are part of a broader initiative to combat perceived threats to national security, particularly in the context of recent events. The government argues that the updated legal framework is necessary to deter potential terrorists and ensure that young offenders are held accountable for their actions. Critics, however, express concerns over the potential impact on juvenile justice systems and the rights of young individuals accused of such crimes.
Legal experts have pointed out that this change could lead to increased scrutiny of minor cases and the potential for longer sentences for younger offenders. Meanwhile, the Russian government has emphasized that these measures are in line with international standards for combating terrorism, despite international criticism of the age reduction.