International study shows most countries set the age of criminal responsibility at 18
“Entre 76 países, apenas 8 têm maioridade penal abaixo de 18 anos de idade”
Forensic Headline Assessment: The original headline highlights the statistical minority; the neutral version emphasizes the global baseline.
A study by Unicef and the Child Rights International Network (CRIN) indicates that the vast majority of 76 analyzed countries set the age of criminal responsibility at 18, as Brazil's National Congress debates legislative changes.
Data shows that 68 out of 76 nations establish 18 as the minimum age to try individuals as adults, with only eight countries applying lower limits. None of the G20 member nations set this threshold below 18 years.
In Brazil, parliamentary discussions involve proposals to lower the age for heinous crimes. While opposition lawmakers push for reductions to 16 or 14 years, the executive branch has signaled support for lowering it to 16 for severe offenses.
International organizations warn that placing juveniles in adult prison systems may increase recidivism rates and ties to criminal organizations.
Legislative debates continue within the National Congress regarding public security and penal reforms.
- 68 out of 76 countries set criminal majority at 18.
- No G20 country has a criminal age below 18.
Corroborates: Entre 76 países, apenas 8 têm maioridade penal abaixo de 18 anos de idade