Slovenia Adopts Unified Framework for Juvenile Criminal Law

On 28 January 2026, the National Assembly of the Republic of Slovenia adopted the Act on the Criminal Treatment of Juveniles (ZKOM), establishing the country's first unified legislative framework governing the criminal treatment of juveniles. This comprehensive reform introduces significant changes to the juvenile justice system, including age thresholds and new approaches to addressing juvenile offending.

Key Provisions of ZKOM

The ZKOM introduces several key provisions:

• Age Categories and Sanctions: The Act clearly distinguishes between different categories of offenders and the sanctions applicable to them:
  • Younger Juveniles: Individuals aged 14 to 16 at the time of the offense may only be subject to educational measures.
  • Older Juveniles: Individuals aged 16 to 18 at the time of the offense will, as a rule, also be subject to educational measures, although the imposition of a penalty is exceptionally permitted.
  • Young Adults: Individuals aged 18 to 21 at the time of the offense may be subject to measures considering their age and maturity.
• Comprehensive Framework: The Act consolidates previously dispersed provisions into a unified and systematic framework, providing clarity and consistency in the treatment of juvenile offenders.
• Implementation Timeline: The ZKOM is set to enter into application on 1 January 2027, allowing time for the necessary preparations and adjustments within the juvenile justice system.

Implications for the Juvenile Justice System

The adoption of ZKOM has several implications for the juvenile justice system in Slovenia:

• Standardized Procedures: The unified framework ensures standardized procedures and sanctions for juvenile offenders, promoting fairness and consistency in the legal process.
• Focus on Rehabilitation: By emphasizing educational measures and tailored interventions, the Act underscores a rehabilitative approach to juvenile justice, aiming to support the personal development and reintegration of young offenders.
• Preparation for Implementation: Stakeholders within the juvenile justice system, including courts, law enforcement, and social services, will need to prepare for the implementation of the Act by updating protocols, training personnel, and ensuring resources are in place to support the new framework.

For more detailed information, refer to the official announcement: A Unified Framework for Juvenile Criminal Law: What Does ZKOM Introduce?