Sweden to allow 14-year-olds in prison as parliament tightens laws

Sweden's parliament has voted to lower the age for imprisonment to 14, a significant shift in the country's criminal justice policy. The new laws, approved just weeks before the September 13 parliamentary elections, also tighten immigration rules, specifically making family reunification more difficult. The ruling coalition, bolstered by the Sweden Democrats, secured a majority for these controversial measures after intense debate.

The legislation will allow courts to sentence 14-year-olds to prison starting September 10, 2026. Preparations are already underway to establish separate juvenile units for boys and girls within adult prisons, offering educational opportunities. A key change removes the previous rule where sentences were only applied for the most severe crime committed if multiple offenses occurred.

These reforms come amid rising concerns about youth crime, with police statistics from 2025 indicating that 52 individuals under 15 were involved in homicide or attempted homicide cases. Gang leaders reportedly recruit minors, often through social media, offering money or status.

Opposition parties, including the Social Democrats and the Green Party, voiced strong objections. The Social Democrats argued that the stricter laws would lead to the release of inmates from already overcrowded prisons. The government had previously considered lowering the age to 13 but withdrew that proposal in June following criticism and internal dissent.