Top Prosecutor Calls for "Reform School" Revolution Before Lowering Criminal Age

Lenka Bradáčová, the Czech Republic's chief state prosecutor, is calling for a fundamental overhaul of the country's correctional facilities, often referred to as "reform schools." She insists that such reforms must precede any potential reduction in the age of criminal responsibility, which currently stands at 15 years.

“

Only then can criminal responsibility be reduced.

Bradáčová expressed that the existing system for these institutions is not functioning as intended. The prosecutor believes that without a significant improvement in the conditions and effectiveness of these facilities, lowering the age at which young people can be held criminally liable would be premature and potentially unjust.

“

The current system is not functional.

Furthermore, Bradáčová highlighted the critical need for enhanced protection for children residing in these educational and correctional establishments. She pointed out that many of these children are placed in institutions not due to criminal behavior, but because of tragic circumstances such as the death of their parents or a lack of anyone willing or able to care for them. This underscores the complex social issues intertwined with the justice system's approach to minors.

“

We also need to protect children who stay in educational facilities.