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Children's Rights and the Minimum Age of Criminal Responsibility

Fernando Pessoa

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Published in Children S Rights And The Minimum Age Of Criminal Responsibility: A Global Perspective (Advances In Criminology)

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Children are particularly vulnerable to exploitation and abuse, and they need special protection from the law. One of the most important ways to protect children is to ensure that they are not subjected to criminal prosecution for acts that they do not fully understand or for which they are not responsible.

The minimum age of criminal responsibility (MACR) is the age at which a child can be held criminally responsible for their actions. In most countries, the MACR is set at 18 years old. However, there are a number of countries that have set the MACR at a lower age, and this has raised concerns about the protection of children's rights.

There are a number of arguments that have been put forward in favor of lowering the MACR. One argument is that children who commit serious crimes should be held accountable for their actions. Another argument is that lowering the MACR would deter children from committing crimes in the first place. Finally, some people argue that lowering the MACR would help to protect society from dangerous criminals.

Children’s Rights and the Minimum Age of Criminal Responsibility: A Global Perspective (Advances in Criminology)

by Don Cipriani

5 out of 5

Language	:	English
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There are also a number of arguments that have been put forward against lowering the MACR. One argument is that children are not fully developed and do not have the same capacity for understanding and reasoning as adults. Another argument is that lowering the MACR would disproportionately affect children from poor and minority communities. Finally, some people argue that lowering the MACR would lead to more children being incarcerated, which would have a negative impact on their lives.

The evidence on the effects of lowering the MACR is mixed. Some studies have found that lowering the MACR does not lead to an increase in crime. However, other studies have found that lowering the MACR does lead to an increase in the number of children who are incarcerated.

The debate over the MACR is a complex one, with strong arguments on both sides. Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to lower the MACR is a political one. However, it is important to remember that children are particularly vulnerable to exploitation and abuse, and that they need special protection from the law.

If you are concerned about the protection of children's rights, you can take action. You can contact your elected representatives and let them know your views. You can also support organizations that are working to protect children's rights.

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Children’s Rights and the Minimum Age of Criminal Responsibility: A Global Perspective (Advances in Criminology)

by Don Cipriani

5 out of 5