The new policy followed the recommendations of an independent committee set up in 1983 to focus on policies toward petty crime, which increased sharply in the 1970's. The committee noted the declining influence of traditional institutions like churches and labor organizations and the need for other efforts providing supervision and socialization of youths. The government shared the committee's view that petty crime is essentially the result of underlying social problems for which the criminal law is not the appropriate mode of approach in the first place. The government is now subsidizing prevention programs focusing on situational prevention, efforts to improve the socialization of youth, and interagency cooperation. Specific projects are focusing on problem behavior on public transportation, reduction of school failure, and vandalism prevention. Tables, notes, and 14 references.