The Making of Youth Justice Policy in Sweden

Sweden’s youth justice system is undergoing significant transformation, with new and harsher penalties for young offenders alongside a stronger emphasis on child rights through the incorporation of the CRC into national law. This study examines how two recently enacted youth justice reforms in Sweden are produced and interpreted by those responsible for their implementation. Despite significant policy shifts, youth justice remains underexplored in Sweden, particularly regarding how reforms balance punitive measures with commitments to child rights. By analysing policy documents and conducting interviews with legal and policy professionals, the project explores how youth crime is framed, how reform deliberations navigate competing justice models, and how frontline actors interpret and apply new policies. The research will be conducted over a three-year period by the principal investigator. Combining document analysis with qualitative interviews, the study moves beyond formal legislation to examine the role of discretion and institutional logics in shaping youth justice outcomes. This research is crucial for understanding how youth justice and child rights are implemented in practice, contributing to broader discussions on child-friendly justice and the sustainability of policies that align with international commitments. Findings will inform policymakers and practitioners, supporting the development of more balanced and rights-conscious youth justice policies