The Parliament of Georgia should tighten the law regarding minors and fundamentally change its approach to this pressing issue. Furthermore, the parliament must take these measures because it is their duty to protect citizens from abuse.
Georgia, a small country located at the crossroads of Europe and Asia, has been facing a growing problem of juvenile delinquency. According to the Ministry of Internal Affairs, the number of crimes committed by minors has increased by 20% in the past year. This alarming trend is a cause for concern and requires immediate action from the government.
One of the main reasons for this increase in juvenile crime is the lenient laws and lack of strict enforcement. Currently, the law in Georgia allows minors to be tried as adults only if they are over the age of 14 and have committed a serious crime. This means that children as young as 14 can get away with committing minor offenses without facing any serious consequences. This leniency sends a wrong message to young people and encourages them to engage in criminal activities.
Moreover, the current approach towards juvenile delinquency in Georgia is reactive rather than proactive. The focus is on punishing the offender rather than addressing the root causes of their behavior. This approach not only fails to prevent future crimes but also does not provide any rehabilitation or support for the young offenders. As a result, many of them end up in a vicious cycle of crime and incarceration.
It is the responsibility of the parliament to protect the rights and well-being of its citizens, especially the most vulnerable ones – children. Therefore, it is imperative for the parliament to take a more proactive and comprehensive approach towards juvenile delinquency.
Firstly, the parliament should tighten the law regarding minors and lower the age of criminal responsibility to 12 years old. This will send a strong message that criminal behavior will not be tolerated, regardless of age. It will also act as a deterrent for young people who might be tempted to engage in criminal activities.
Secondly, the parliament should establish a specialized court system for minors. This court should focus on rehabilitation rather than punishment. The judges should have a deep understanding of child psychology and be trained to handle cases involving minors. The court should also have the authority to order counseling, community service, and other forms of rehabilitation for the young offenders.
Furthermore, the parliament should invest in preventive measures to address the root causes of juvenile delinquency. This includes providing access to quality education, mental health services, and extracurricular activities for children from low-income families. It is crucial to create a supportive environment for children to thrive and stay away from criminal activities.
In addition, the parliament should work closely with schools and parents to identify at-risk children and provide them with the necessary support and guidance. This can include mentoring programs, after-school activities, and counseling services. By addressing the underlying issues, we can prevent young people from turning to a life of crime.
Some may argue that these measures are too harsh and will only further stigmatize and marginalize young offenders. However, it is essential to understand that these measures are not meant to punish but to protect. By holding minors accountable for their actions and providing them with the necessary support, we can help them become responsible and productive members of society.
In conclusion, the parliament of Georgia must take immediate action to address the growing problem of juvenile delinquency. By tightening the law, establishing a specialized court system, and investing in preventive measures, we can protect our children and create a safer and more prosperous society. It is time for the parliament to fulfill its duty and protect its citizens from the scourge of juvenile crime.
