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Peru’s Constitutional Court Sets Nov. 25 Hearing on Challenge to Law Trying 16–17-Year-Olds as Adults

Judicial leaders argue the measure breaches Peru’s duty of special protection for children.

Overview

  • The Constitutional Court will hear the Poder Judicial’s unconstitutionality suit against Law 32330 on Tuesday after months of delay.
  • The case consolidates filings from the Ombudsman’s Office, the Attorney General’s Office, and the Ayacucho Bar Association, signaling broad institutional pushback.
  • Law 32330 alters the Penal Code to hold 16- and 17-year-olds criminally liable for grave crimes including homicide, rape, extortion, terrorism, and contract killing.
  • The challenge cites violations of Article 4 of the Constitution, the best interests of the child, the principle of non-regression, and international human rights duties referenced in Article 55 and the Fourth Final and Transitory Provision.
  • Judicial figures report 3,520 adolescents in the juvenile system and INPE records at least 71 minors aged 16–17 held with adults, highlighting operational strain pending the ruling.