Juvenile Delinquency in Turkey

Abstract

The Turkish Penal Code divides juvenile age into three categories: 0- to 11-year-olds, who have no criminal responsibility; 11- to 15-year-olds, who have special criminal responsibilities and are tried before the juvenile courts established in 1987; and 15- to 18-year-olds, who are subject to reduced punishments. Juvenile crimes in rural areas are mostly homicide and sexual offenses; whereas theft is the leading offense in urban areas. Generally, youth is not involved in organized crime. In 1988, there were 7 criminals per 100,000 juveniles. Migration to urban areas, industrialization, unemployment, and periods of civil disorder have had a negative impact on juvenile delinquency in Turkey. Under current legislation, prosecutors have to launch criminal proceedings after each criminal act; therefore mediation is not possible. It may be argued that in cases of juvenile crime, the prosecutor should use his discretion on whether or not to commence proceedings. A specialized police group should be set up to deal with juvenile crime. Juvenile suspects should have stronger rights during criminal proceedings.