ISSN:
2181-3906
2025
International scientific journal
«MODERN SCIENCE АND RESEARCH»
VOLUME 4 / ISSUE 11 / UIF:8.2 / MODERNSCIENCE.UZ
349
CRIMES COMMITTED BY MINORS AND THEIR LEGAL CONSEQUENCES
Urazov Xayotjon Ulug‘bek o‘g‘li
Namangan State University
Faculty of Law, 1st-year student
https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.17574895
The fast-paced development of the modern world highlights the invaluable importance of
legal idealism. However, this idealism is negatively affected by the rising crime index, which
continues to exert a significant influence on social stability. What is particularly concerning is
that nearly 50% of crimes committed worldwide involve minors. This article aims to examine the
causes of juvenile delinquency, its consequences, and possible solutions.
First of all, what does the term “juvenile subject of crime” mean? From a legal
perspective, it refers to the actions or inactions of a minor that affect objects protected by
criminal law. In other words, it reflects the participation of minors in legal relations within
society. The criminal responsibility age varies across countries: for example, in the United
States, the minimum age can be as low as six, while in many other countries it is generally set at
14–15 years.
The international community, including the United Nations, is actively working to
address this problem. The 1989 UN Convention on the Rights of the Child protects the rights of
all individuals under the age of 18. According to the Convention, crimes committed by minors
must be addressed through a special juvenile justice system, with an emphasis on educational
and rehabilitative measures rather than punitive ones.
According to statistics provided by UNICEF, young people between the ages of 15–19
and 20–24 are the most likely to commit crimes. Alarmingly, the rate of homicide within these
age groups is significantly high: 18.5% of juvenile crimes are homicides, 26.3% involve acts of
violence, and 6.2% consist of theft, robbery, and other property-related offenses.
Several factors contribute to juvenile delinquency. The first among them is socio-
economic conditions. Economic development differs widely across countries. For example, the
United Arab Emirates, which enjoys a strong economy, has a relatively low crime rate, whereas
countries with weaker economies—such as Mexico—tend to experience higher crime levels.
This shows that low household well-being can push minors toward criminal behavior.
Social and psychological factors also play a major role. Domestic violence, lack of
parental attention, emotional pressure, and negative treatment deeply affect a child’s
psychological state. No child chooses the path of crime without reason; in most cases, improper
parenting, neglect, or abuse drive minors toward harmful behaviors.
Juvenile crime is a global issue that requires coordinated international action. The UN
and other international organizations must intensify efforts in this field.
Firstly, international standards for the protection of children's rights must be reinforced.
The Convention on the Rights of the Child and its optional protocols should be fully
implemented by all member states, and monitoring mechanisms must be strengthened.
Secondly, the UN, UNICEF, and UNODC should expand comprehensive programs
addressing root causes such as poverty, lack of education, domestic violence, and online risks.
ISSN:
2181-3906
2025
International scientific journal
«MODERN SCIENCE АND RESEARCH»
VOLUME 4 / ISSUE 11 / UIF:8.2 / MODERNSCIENCE.UZ
350
Thirdly, countries should receive assistance in improving juvenile justice systems,
training police and judicial personnel who work with minors, and developing rehabilitation
centers. The primary goal should be reintegration—not punishment. Through this approach,
crime rates among minors, who represent the foundation of the world’s future, can be
significantly reduced.
In conclusion, juvenile delinquency is a complex and multifaceted social issue. For its
effective resolution, states must strengthen preventive measures, improve education and social
protection, while the United Nations and international organizations must further develop global
standards and joint programs aimed at safeguarding children.
