The long-delayed study commissioned by the governing coalition of the Christian Union and Social Democrats to investigate the root causes of youth violence remains firmly in the planning phase, raising questions about the government’s commitment to addressing the escalating concerns. A spokesperson for the Federal Ministry of Justice acknowledged in Berlin on Wednesday that the process of contracting a research institution to conduct the study is currently underway. The delay stems, in part, from coordination efforts with a working group established by the Conference of Interior Ministers, which began its work as early as 2023. The Ministry is attempting to avoid duplication of effort by incorporating the findings of this existing group into the scope of the new commissioned study.
This cautious approach, however, is drawing criticism from opposition parties who argue that prolonged planning and bureaucratic entanglement are hindering a swift and decisive response to a situation that many describe as increasingly alarming. Juvenile crime rates have demonstrably risen across Germany, prompting urgent calls for comprehensive analysis and proactive intervention strategies.
The coalition’s stance contrasts sharply with proposals recently floated by the Austrian government, which contemplates introducing “prison-like stays” for juveniles under the age of 14. According to a spokesperson, Justice Minister Stefanie Hubig explicitly rejects this approach, ruling out any consideration of lowering the age of criminal responsibility. The Ministry insists that existing mechanisms are already in place to address the behaviors of young offenders, reflecting a perceived reluctance to adopt more radical preventative measures. This rejection, however, has sparked debate regarding the severity of existing interventions and their efficacy in deterring future offenses, fostering a broader discussion on preventative juvenile justice strategies within Germany.