Transformation and Trends of Juvenile Delinquency in Libyan Society: An Analytical Sociological Study for the Period from 1999 to 2023

Abstract

This study aims to analyze the phenomenon of juvenile delinquency in Libya by comparing two periods: 1999–2010 and 2012–2023. The results show a significant rise in delinquency rates after 2011, reflecting the political and social changes following the revolution. The decline of family and school roles, alongside worsening security and economic conditions, played a major role in this increase. The most affected group is males over 14 years old. Several factors contributed to this phenomenon, including weak family cohesion, social marginalization, and unstable security. The results also show that after 2011, violent crimes became more common, while financial crimes declined. Recently, an increase in unidentified crimes has been noted, which is attributed to poor coordination among security agencies. The study concluded that the social environment after 2011, including armed conflict and family disintegration, contributed to the increased complexity of this phenomenon. Based on these findings, the study recommended reforming the judicial system, strengthening the role of the family and school, developing curricula to include legal compliance and behavioral deviance, and supporting and strengthening the capabilities of security agencies.