Referendum on lowering criminal responsibility age becomes key debate in Brazil's public security amendment

A proposal to hold a referendum on lowering the age of criminal responsibility has become the main point of contention in a public security constitutional amendment. This referendum suggestion, included by the rapporteur against the government's wishes, aims to gauge public opinion on reducing the age from 18 to 16 for violent crimes. President Lula opposes this reduction, while opposition and some allies support it, citing popular demand. Recent incidents, including the death of a dog and a mass rape case, have fueled the debate. The government argues against lowering the age, deeming it unconstitutional and ineffective.