FALCON POWERS – Swedish Justice Minister Gunnar Strömmer announced new government measures to tighten penalties for children and juvenile offenders, abolishing the system of punishing them in “closed care” centers for youth and replacing it with a prison system.
The Swedish Justice Minister stated that the Swedish government sees the necessity of dealing firmly with juvenile offenders in light of the rising violent crimes they commit and participate in, emphasizing the importance of ensuring that penalties reflect the seriousness of the crimes committed.
Minister Strömmer confirmed that the government is working on establishing a new prison system for juvenile offenders, designed to meet their needs and provide appropriate care while also serving as a strict punishment that makes them feel imprisoned. The completion of these prisons is expected within two years.
Strömmer explained that the current “closed care” system has proven ineffective in deterring juvenile offenders from committing crimes and reintegrating them into society, noting that the rate of repeat offenses after leaving “closed care” centers exceeds 90%.
