April 2 (UPI) -- The United Nations Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights urged authorities in El Salvador to reconsider recent constitutional and legal changes that allow life sentences for minors as young as 12.
The agency warned Wednesday that the measure contradicts international human rights standards and obligations.
El Salvador's Legislative Assembly approved the reform March 26, amending the country's juvenile criminal law to permit life imprisonment for minors linked to criminal groups.
The change is part of broader constitutional changes promoted by President Nayib Bukele, and it expands the use of life sentences, previously authorized for adults, to include adolescents.
The reform accompanying a constitutional amendment promoted by the government of Nayib Bukele alters the juvenile justice system by removing previous maximum detention limits for crimes such as terrorism and organized crime, digital outlet Lexis reported.
