Lula Supports Lowering Age of Criminal Responsibility to 16 in Brazil

President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva said he supports lowering the age of criminal responsibility for heinous crimes from 18 to 16, but not through the current Public Safety Constitutional Amendment. The amendment, which has passed the lower house and is awaiting a Senate vote, aims to strengthen federal authority over public security, including the creation of a Ministry of Public Security and clearer police roles. Lula stated that once the amendment is approved, he would discuss the age issue in Congress. The opposition is pushing for an amendment that would lower the age to 14. The debate reflects differing views on how to address organized crime and juvenile offenders in Brazil.