Title: Young Gang Criminals in Sweden Share Similarities with Child Soldiers, Analyst Says
Introduction:
Young gang criminals in Sweden have been compared to “child soldiers” by both politicians and the media. Henrik Häggström, an analyst at the Swedish Defense Academy, who has previously worked with child soldiers at international organizations, argues that the comparison is not unwarranted. Häggström points out that gang criminal children in Sweden are similar to those recruited into armed conflicts, as they face financial vulnerability, troubled family relationships, and perceive limited future prospects. This article delves into the similarities between gang crime in Sweden and the recruitment of child soldiers.
Similar Recruitment Conditions:
According to Häggström, children who are recruited into gangs in Sweden share similar conditions for recruitment with child soldiers. Financial vulnerability, lack of opportunities, and hopelessness drive young people towards joining gangs. The allure of weapons, money, cars, jewelry, and the ability to rise quickly in rank also attracts them.
Manipulation and Blackmail:
Similar to armed groups, gangs in Sweden use tactics of manipulation and blackmail to prevent children from leaving the group. Häggström explains that this method is common in both war-torn countries and gangs in Sweden.
Easily Manipulated:
Häggström emphasizes that children participating in armed conflicts or joining gangs are often regarded as “good soldiers.” These children are easily manipulated due to their limited understanding of consequences and their innocent appearance.
Understanding Community Support:
The community’s support and understanding play a crucial role in rehabilitating children involved in serious violent crimes. Häggström suggests that Sweden can learn valuable lessons from post-war reconciliation efforts in Rwanda. Encouraging children involved in gang crime to speak about their actions before the local community can help build understanding and forgiveness, fostering their reintegration into society.
Reducing Crime by Embracing Offenders:
Häggström urges ordinary people living in areas affected by gang crime to embrace those who choose to leave criminal activities behind. The support of the local community is essential to ensure a successful transition. The “Stop shooting” project, which involves gathering authorities, property owners, and family members to create a support network, has shown promising results in reducing shootings and explosions, particularly in Malmö.
Global Perspective on Child Soldiers:
The use of child soldiers has a long history across the world, beginning in ancient civilizations. Surveys conducted by human rights organizations in the early 21st century estimated that there were approximately half a million child soldiers worldwide, with over 300,000 involved in ongoing armed conflicts, primarily in Africa and Asia.
Prohibited by International Law:
Recruitment of child soldiers is prohibited under international law. The 1949 Geneva Conventions and the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child set age limits for recruitment, with the latter raising the age limit to 18 years. The recruitment of child soldiers is considered a war crime that can be prosecuted by the International Criminal Court.
Conclusion:
Henrik Häggström’s insights shed light on the similarities between gang crime in Sweden and the recruitment of child soldiers worldwide. By understanding the underlying factors that contribute to the involvement of young people in gangs, society can work towards implementing strategies for prevention and rehabilitation. The importance of community support in embracing and assisting young individuals in leaving criminal activities behind cannot be overstated.