Decriminalization of Juvenile Offenses
Approaches, Challenges, and Opportunities
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.61438/bsrqj.v2i4.160Keywords:
Depenalization, Decriminalization, Social Harms, Crime PreventionAbstract
Juvenile offenses are among the complex and challenging issues in various legal systems, requiring specific approaches tailored to the age, psychological, and social characteristics of this group. In many countries, particularly in recent decades, there has been a shift towards decriminalization and the adoption of non-judicial methods for addressing juvenile offenses as a new and effective approach. The primary objective of this research is to examine the advantages, challenges, and opportunities associated with the decriminalization of juvenile offenses. Using a descriptive-analytical method and library resources, this study first analyzes and introduces the concepts and approaches to decriminalization. It then highlights the legal, social, and cultural challenges associated with implementing this approach. One of the key concerns of this study is to answer the question: What are the challenges and obstacles that may arise in implementing decriminalization and depenalization policies for juvenile offenses in different societies? This research is based on the hypothesis that implementing a decriminalization approach in addressing juvenile offenses can lead to crime prevention, crime reduction, and successful reintegration of juveniles into society, provided that legal, social, and cultural challenges are effectively addressed. The findings of this study indicate that decriminalization can have positive effects, including reducing pressure on the judicial system, creating educational and rehabilitative opportunities for juveniles, and contributing to their social reintegration. However, it also requires the development of effective legal frameworks and supportive structures to safeguard juvenile rights and prevent potential misuse.
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