Russia mulls lowering criminal responsibility age to 14 for certain offenses

By Alperen Aktas

ISTANBUL (AA) - Russia is considering a proposal from the Prosecutor General’s Office to lower the age of criminal responsibility from 16 to 14 for certain offenses, Deputy Justice Minister Elena Ardabyeva said Wednesday during a parliamentary session in Moscow.

Speaking at a State Duma meeting on a bill introducing penalties for desecrating monuments to national defenders, Ardabyeva said the proposal is being reviewed by the commission on legislative activities.

“In terms of toughening criminal liability, we are indeed considering such a proposal,” she said, adding that the Prosecutor General’s Office suggested amending Article 20 of the Russian Criminal Code to allow 14-year-olds to be held responsible for such acts.

Ardabyeva emphasized that, while the idea is feasible, it is a "difficult decision" that necessitates further consideration.

Currently, individuals in Russia can be held criminally liable from the age of 16. However, 14-year-olds can already face prosecution for serious crimes such as murder, rape, and grievous bodily harm.

The potential change has already been discussed, but it will be thoroughly reviewed separately.