Juvenile Laws at China
China's juvenile justice system has undergone significant reforms in recent years, particularly concerning the age of criminal responsibility and the treatment of young offenders.
Legal Framework
Age of Criminal Responsibility
12 to 14 Years Old: As of March 1, 2021, children aged 12 to 14 can be held criminally responsible if they commit intentional homicide or cause death or severe injury through extremely cruel means. Such cases require approval from the Supreme People's Procuratorate.
14 to 16 Years Old: Individuals in this age group are criminally liable for serious crimes like murder, rape, and robbery.
Under 12 Years Old: Children under 12 are generally exempt from criminal punishment but may receive correctional education for serious misbehaviors.
Juvenile Courts and Legal Proceedings
China has established over 2,100 juvenile courts nationwide, focusing on education and rehabilitation. Trials often adopt a roundtable format to reduce psychological pressure on young offenders.
Correctional Education and Rehabilitation
For minors not held criminally liable, correctional education measures include:
Reprimands and apologies
Psychological counseling and behavior correction
Participation in social service activities
Enrollment in special schools for persistent offenders
Recent Developments and Public Debate
In 2024, the murder of a 13-year-old boy in Hebei province by three classmates, all under 14, reignited discussions on juvenile crime and the treatment of "left-behind" children—those raised by relatives while parents work in cities.
The incident led to public calls for stricter penalties and better mental health support for minors.
Conclusion
China's juvenile justice reforms aim to balance accountability with rehabilitation, emphasizing education and community involvement. However, challenges remain in addressing serious juvenile offenses and ensuring effective support systems for at-risk youth.
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