San Marino is Earth’s oldest constitutional Republic, named after the legendary stonemason Saint Marinus. Despite its rich history, San Marino continues to face challenges related to child poverty. Of the roughly 5,000 children aged 15 or younger, about 6.1% live below 50% of the national poverty line.

This statistic models an ongoing socioeconomic issue that requires persistent attention and committed action from the government. However, children are protected under the Children’s Rights Convention, which provides a vital foundation for their welfare. San Marino offers accessible resources to all adolescents to ensure that protection and stability are allotted to them. This commitment to their well-being is a cornerstone of the nation’s policy.

Justice

Criminal justice is another major issue in San Marino, particularly regarding the treatment of minors. Under the country’s Penal Code, which defines all criminal offenses, children aged 12 or younger cannot be charged with misdemeanors. Arresting a child at that age is considered both illegal and inappropriate. This legal provision reflects understanding child development and safeguarding children’s rights.

However, any child older than 12 can be prosecuted, which has sparked debate about the appropriate age of criminal responsibility. Adolescents under 18 may be granted a pardon under specific circumstances, such as limited cognitive capacity, allowing for flexibility in sentencing. While San Marino does not have dedicated juvenile detention centers, it has established separate divisions for questioning minors, ensuring a more sensitive and age-appropriate approach to handling such cases.

Infant Mortality Rate

San Marino’s low infant mortality rate is a critical health indicator that demands ongoing attention to prevent any potential rise. Between 2013 and 2023, the mortality rate for children under the age of five stood at 1.4 deaths per 1,000 live births, according to the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF). At that time, the population was approximately 33,733. By 2025, it has declined slightly to around 33,572, reflecting a gradual decrease over two years.

Respiratory infections are the most common cause of under-5 mortality in San Marino, with children experiencing symptoms ranging from mild to severe. In response, UNICEF reported that local health clinics have taken action to stabilize rates by providing targeted treatment. For instance, children experiencing diarrhea are given oral rehydration solutions, including fluid-based or pre-packaged treatment packets. These proactive health care measures support the well-being of San Marino’s youngest residents and help lay the foundation for a healthier future generation.

Conclusion

San Marino stands at a critical point, ready to tackle pressing challenges. Issues like child poverty in San Marino, complexities within the criminal justice system and managing mortality rates highlight the nation’s commitment to its youth. With the country introducing the Children’s Rights Convention and with UNICEF’s support, initiatives and instruction have been adhered to with great commitment. Furthermore, the public remains focused on expanding and improving communities, an essential goal for the country’s future. By addressing these concerns with practical solutions, San Marino can reinforce its legacy as the world’s oldest republic and build a more prosperous, equitable society for all its citizens.

– Janae Bayford

Janae is based in Centennial, CO, USA and focuses on Good News and Global Health for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Unspalsh