Juvenile Laws at Iran
In Iran, juvenile laws are primarily influenced by Islamic law (Sharia) and the country’s own legal system, which is a mix of civil and religious law. Juvenile justice in Iran is focused on the rehabilitation and reintegration of minors, but it also contains some stricter elements due to the interpretation of Sharia law.
Here’s an overview of juvenile laws in Iran:
⚖️ Age of Criminal Responsibility
For Boys:
The age of criminal responsibility is 15 years for boys (based on the Islamic lunar calendar).
They can be tried in criminal courts and face punishments for criminal acts.
For Girls:
The age of criminal responsibility is 9 years for girls (based on the Islamic lunar calendar).
This means that girls can be held criminally responsible for their actions from the age of 9.
Note: The age of responsibility is relatively low by international standards, particularly for girls. However, Iran recognizes that minors (especially those below 18) should receive special consideration in the justice system.
📜 Legal Framework for Juveniles
The Islamic Penal Code
Iran’s juvenile justice system is largely governed by the Islamic Penal Code, especially the laws on punishments for minors.
The most recent amendments to the code were made in 2013 and aimed at protecting children and adolescents from some forms of punishment, particularly the death penalty.
The Juvenile Justice Reform
Efforts have been made in recent years to improve the treatment of juveniles in Iran, especially after Iran ratified the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child in 1994.
A reform plan in 2013 sought to implement more rehabilitation-focused measures, rather than just punitive approaches.
⚖️ Juvenile Court System
Juvenile offenders are typically tried in specialized juvenile courts, which handle cases for those under 18 years of age.
Courts consider the maturity, mental capacity, and intent of the offender, as well as mitigating factors such as the juvenile’s background or circumstances.
Iran also has a rehabilitation system that focuses on education and vocational training for juveniles.
🧑⚖️ Sentencing and Punishments
While there is a focus on rehabilitation, certain serious crimes can result in harsh punishments, including imprisonment. The following are common sentences and measures for juveniles:
Rehabilitation programs (e.g., education, vocational training, counseling).
Juvenile detention centers (these are typically more focused on rehabilitation than adult prisons).
Fines or restitution (in cases where the victim can be compensated).
Probation or community service may also be applied.
Serious Crimes
For serious crimes (such as murder or drug trafficking), juveniles can face harsh sentences, including the death penalty. However, since 2013, Iran has moved toward restrictions on executing minors for certain crimes, particularly where the offender has not reached full maturity or where they have shown remorse or reform.
🔴 Death Penalty for Juveniles
Historically, juveniles could face the death penalty in Iran for serious crimes like murder. However, international pressure and domestic reforms have led to restrictions in its application.
In 2013, reforms to the Islamic Penal Code prohibited the death penalty for minors who were under the age of 18 at the time of committing the crime, unless they were deemed to have reached full maturity and were capable of understanding the consequences of their actions.
In practice, this has meant that juveniles sentenced to death for crimes committed when they were minors can have their sentences reduced or commuted.
🌍 International Influence
Iran's legal system and its juvenile justice practices have come under significant scrutiny from international human rights organizations, particularly due to issues with the death penalty, harsh punishments, and the age of criminal responsibility.
UNICEF and other NGOs have advocated for further reforms to bring Iran’s juvenile justice system in line with international human rights standards.
While progress has been made, there remains a significant gap between Iran's laws and international norms in terms of juvenile rights, particularly concerning punitive measures and the age of responsibility.
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