In Switzerland, lots of guns but little gun crime

In Switzerland, lots of guns but little gun crime
In Switzerland, all young men own military rifles as part of their mandatory service. Getty Images/Sean Gallup
In Switzerland, lots of guns but little gun crime
In Switzerland, all young men own military rifles as part of their mandatory service. Getty Images/Sean Gallup

In Switzerland, lots of guns but little gun crime

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As part of our Here, There series, we’re taking a look at gun ownership and crime in other countries. In Switzerland, guns are readily available. Recreational shooting and shooting clubs are popular among Swiss men. Military service is compulsory, and the government issues automatic assault rifles and ammunition to all young males.

Despite widespread gun ownership, Switzerland has a very low rate of gun crime, says Freda Adler an expert in comparative criminology who’s lived and studied in Switzerland.