French Senate Reinstates Key Provisions in Controversial Juvenile Justice Reform

Gabriel Attal's proposal, aimed at tougher measures for minors and their parents, faces legal, political, and professional opposition as debates continue.

The Senate reintroduced measures such as immediate trials for minors aged 15 and above during late-night discussions, intensifying debates over the reform's direction.
Judicial professionals, unions, and political allies criticize the proposal for prioritizing punitive measures over rehabilitation and lacking necessary resources.
Key provisions, including reduced protections under the 'excuse of minority' and sanctions for parents, remain contentious and face accusations of being rushed and potentially unconstitutional.
The reform has revealed fractures within the government coalition, with some senators opposing the measures as reactionary and impractical.
Critics argue the proposal contradicts France's historical focus on rehabilitative juvenile justice and risks violating international conventions on children's rights.