Subject:
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Re: An armed society...
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Newsgroups:
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lugnet.off-topic.debate
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Date:
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Tue, 22 Jan 2002 08:51:42 GMT
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Viewed:
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570 times
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In lugnet.off-topic.debate, Christopher L. Weeks writes:
> In lugnet.off-topic.debate, Scott Arthur writes:
>
> > It is covered in detail here:
> > http://news.bbc.co.uk/hi/english/world/europe/newsid_1566000/1566715.stm
> >
> > ==+==
> > The country has a population of six million, but there are estimated to be
> > at least two million publicly-owned firearms, including about 600,000
> > automatic rifles and 500,000 pistols.
> >
> > This is in a very large part due to Switzerland's unique system of national
> > defence, developed over the centuries.
> >
> > Instead of a standing, full-time army, the country requires every man to
> > undergo some form of military training for a few days or weeks a year
> > throughout most of their lives.
> >
> > Between the ages of 21 and 32 men serve as frontline troops. They are given
> > an M-57 assault rifle and 24 rounds of ammunition which they are required to
> > keep at home.
> >
> > Once discharged, men serve in the Swiss equivalent of the US National Guard,
> > but still have to train occasionally and are given bolt rifles. Women do not
> > have to own firearms, but are encouraged to.
> > ==+==
> >
> > But it is not perfect:
> > http://news.bbc.co.uk/hi/english/world/europe/newsid_1566000/1566321.stm
>
> Scott, thanks for the link and summary. But I hope that perfect isn't the only
> way we can consider a system a success.
Interestingly, there was an article on BBC Radio 4 last night about crime
control methods in Europe. Some facts about Switzerland:
+ Their crime rate is half the EU average (Switzerland is not part of the EU)
+ Their police force is around the same size as the EU average.
+ Every citizen must register with the local police. When he/she move they
must reregister.
+ The Swiss largely live in small communities. Community/self policing is
used to great effect - they gave some real busy-body neighbour examples.
+ Traditionally, the national service weapons are treated with respect (i.e.
they are not fashion accessories) and some families view it as an honour to
have one in their home.
+ No national service weapon has ever been used in a murder.
Apologies to any Swiss nationals if the above is wrong in anyway… but blame
the BBC!
Scott A
>
> Chris
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