Sweden’s government has withdrawn a controversial proposal that sought to lower the minimum age for prison sentences from 15 to 13, citing insufficient support in parliament.

Justice Minister, Gunnar Strommer announced on Thursday that the administration would instead submit a revised bill within weeks proposing that children as young as 14 could receive prison sentences. He expressed confidence that the new measure would secure parliamentary approval by August.

The minority government, which relies on the support of the Sweden Democrats, has prioritised tackling crime since assuming office in 2022.

Explaining the decision to withdraw the original proposal, Strommer said uncertainty over parliamentary backing prompted the government to act cautiously and remove the bill before a scheduled vote.

The proposal, which lawmakers were expected to consider on June 15, generated widespread opposition in Sweden, a country with a strong reputation for protecting children’s rights.

Among the 126 organisations and public authorities consulted during the legislative process, a majority either criticised or opposed the proposal. Those expressing reservations included the police and prison authorities.

A government-appointed commissioner had previously recommended reducing the age threshold to 14 for serious crimes. However, the government initially opted to lower it further to 13 before reversing course.

Sweden’s main opposition party, the Social Democrats, has indicated support for setting the age at 14.

Strommer acknowledged that the revised age limit was likely to attract broader support, noting that many stakeholders appeared more comfortable with the higher threshold.

For more than a decade, Sweden has faced rising levels of organised criminal violence, largely linked to gang conflicts and competition within the illegal drug trade.

Authorities say criminal groups have increasingly recruited children under 15, often through online channels, to carry out shootings and bomb attacks because they cannot currently receive prison sentences if apprehended.

In anticipation of possible reforms, eight prisons have been instructed to establish dedicated units for minors, ensuring they remain separated from adult inmates.

Under existing rules, young offenders convicted of serious crimes are generally placed in special detention and rehabilitation centres known as SiS homes rather than conventional prisons.

However, concerns have grown in recent years that some of these facilities have become environments where criminal networks recruit new members.

The proposed changes form part of a broader effort by the government to advance key reforms ahead of legislative elections scheduled for September.