05.04.2026 19:14
Justice Minister Akın Gürlek stated that the issue is a 'bleeding wound' of society during a program where he met with families victimized by children involved in crime, announcing that a new legislative effort regarding children involved in crime will be undertaken.
Minister of Justice Akın Gürlek, together with the Chair of the Turkish Grand National Assembly's Research Commission on Juvenile Offenders and AK Party Istanbul Deputy Müşerref Pervin Tuba Durgut, met with families victimized by juvenile offenders at the Sarıyer Judicial House.
Speaking at the program, Minister Gürlek expressed his condolences to the families of the deceased and conveyed his satisfaction in being with the families. Stating that he has been involved in many cases involving victimized families, Gürlek emphasized that the judiciary comes from the point of application.
"THE BLEEDING WOUND OF SOCIETY"
Emphasizing that both the TBMM Commission and the Ministry are working on the 12th Judicial Package, Gürlek stated, "We will make a legislative effort for necessary implementations in this regard, especially by fundamentally changing the concept of juvenile offenders, taking into account the sensitivities in society. This meeting is very valuable for this reason. I will consult with our esteemed Chairman regarding my observations on the cases where you have been victimized, and we will take them into account during the legislative process of the law." Stating that the issue of juvenile offenders is the 'bleeding wound' of society, Gürlek noted that there is discomfort in society regarding the penalties in this area and that necessary steps will be taken to alleviate this discomfort.
"IT IS VERY VALUABLE FOR THEM TO FEEL THE STATE'S VOICES"
Commission Chair Durgut stated that recently, crimes involving individuals under the age of 18 have reached dimensions that disturb the public conscience. Indicating that risks and protective factors are being comprehensively analyzed in the commission established within the TBMM, Durgut expressed that efforts are ongoing to increase the deterrent effect of penalties, as well as preventive and rehabilitative steps aimed at protecting children. Durgut noted that Minister Gürlek has shown sensitivity to the process, stating, "It is very valuable for people to feel that the state hears their voices and shares their pain while they are experiencing their sorrows and fighting for justice."
After the speeches, Minister Gürlek and Durgut met with the victimized families in a closed session with the press.