Czech Justice Minister proposes lowering criminal age to 13

Czech Justice Minister Jeroným Tejc is considering lowering the age of criminal responsibility from 15 to 13 for the most serious offenses. The proposal, which may be introduced as early as summer 2026, follows a ministry analysis of school-related incidents.

According to police data presented by the minister, 832 incidents involving children and adolescents were recorded in schools between January and June of this year. Of these, 268 were classified as cases of youth aggression or radicalization, with 138 investigated as criminal offenses. The analysis noted that in most cases, no weapons were used, though 22 incidents involved knives and six involved firearms.

The minister is weighing two options: a blanket reduction of the age limit or a targeted reduction specifically for the most severe crimes, such as those carrying exceptional sentences. The latter option is currently favored by the government coalition.

In response, the Committee for Victims' Rights has warned against the move, arguing that scientific research does not clearly show an increase in the brutality of crimes committed by children under 15. Experts emphasize that prevention and social work are more effective responses than lowering the age of criminal liability.