Aiding and Abetting in Suicide Among Children and Adolescents

Abstract

An increasing number of children and young people are committing suicide. Very often this occurs as a result of persuasion or with the provision of aid by peers. The purpose of this article is to introduce and explain the most important issues related to the offence under Article 151 of the Criminal Code. The perpetrator of the criminal act in question leads another person to take his or her own life. At the same time, it is not necessary for death to occur. The mere taking of actions directly aimed at suicide is sufficient. Persuasion involves inducing another person to take his or her own life. The persuasion should be explicit in oral or written form. Providing assistance, on the other hand, may consist of providing a measure, giving advice or guidance.