In “How to Prevent Gun Massacres? Look Around the World,” John Cassidy delves into gun control. Comparing the United States to other countries that have successfully implemented reforms to reduce mass shootings.
Gun Control In Australia
Drawing on the tragic example of the Port Arthur massacre in Australia in 1996, Cassidy highlights how Australia’s swift political response led to significant changes in its gun laws. Resulting in a drastic reduction in mass shootings.
The federal and state governments jointly banned semi-automatic and pump-action firearms. They initiated a buyback scheme. Established a centralized registry of gun owners and launched a public education campaign about the new laws. Since these changes, mass shootings in Australia have become rare.
Other Countries
The article also references other countries that have experienced mass shootings, including Britain, Canada, and Israel, outlining how each nation responded with stricter gun control measures.
Britain: In Britain, handgun ownership was severely restricted following a school shooting in Dunblane, Scotland, in 1996.
Canada: Canada’s response to a 1989 shooting at École Polytechnique in Montreal included implementing waiting periods for gun purchases. Expanded background checks. A national registration system. A ban on large-capacity magazines for semi-automatic weapons. And tightening of gun laws in recent years.
Israel: Israel, despite being a heavily armed democracy, imposes strict gun control measures, requiring a government license to purchase a firearm, with stringent eligibility criteria.
In addition, Japan, New Zealand, and Norway have all implemented gun control measures to reduce gun violence drastically.
Cassidy contrasts these examples with the situation in the United States. The unique political landscape. The power of the gun lobby. And the obstacles posed by the filibuster in implementing gun control measures.
Despite the prevalence of gun violence and mass shootings in the U.S., efforts to enact significant reforms have largely been stymied.
Cassidy concludes by asserting that while other countries have not eliminated mass shootings, they have successfully made them rare occurrences through thoughtful policy changes.
He suggests that addressing political capture and systemic issues in the U.S. is crucial to achieving similar results and preventing future tragedies.