Over the past several decades, Europe has witnessed numerous mass shootings, particularly in schools and public places. The attackers, often young people or students, used firearms to kill a large number of people, including many children and youths. Often, the perpetrators committed suicide after the crime. These tragic events have been recorded in many countries such as Belgium, the United Kingdom, France, Germany, Finland, Slovakia, the Netherlands, Norway, Croatia, Sweden, and Serbia. The recent incident in Graz, Austria, where ten people were killed, has further highlighted this issue. Authorities’ responses include measures to control access to weapons and bans on social media access for children under 15 in some countries. This topic sparks broad debate about safety, mental health, and gun laws in Europe.
Political Perspectives:
Left: Left-leaning outlets emphasize the need for stricter gun control laws, mental health support, and social reforms to prevent such tragedies. They often highlight systemic issues such as easy access to firearms, social alienation, and the role of media in influencing violent behavior. The narrative focuses on prevention through policy changes and community support.
Center: Centrist sources tend to report the facts of the incidents with balanced coverage, acknowledging the tragedy and the need for both security measures and mental health interventions. They often discuss the complexity of the issue, including legal, social, and psychological factors, and call for pragmatic solutions that balance individual rights and public safety.
Right: Right-leaning media often focus on the enforcement of existing laws, the importance of personal responsibility, and sometimes the role of security in schools and public places. They may emphasize the need for stronger law enforcement and criticize what they see as excessive restrictions on gun ownership. Some narratives also focus on the cultural or moral decline as a root cause.
