The bloody massacre in the US, in which 19 children and two adults were shot dead by an 18-year-old, shocked the whole world. American lawyer Robin Lumdsen explains in a conversation with Katia Wagner: “The weapon has a strong symbolism for Americans and is part of the culture!”. Should we also discuss in Austria whether stricter gun laws are needed? Weapons expert Andreas Rippel answers with a resounding “no”.
Because according to the chairman of the interest group for a liberal arms law, the ‘right of the reliable citizen’ must be protected. Anyone who wants to own a weapon and has the appropriate qualifications should also be able to buy a weapon. The weapons expert does not believe that firearms massacres could also take place here on a regular basis. “We have a different relationship with guns than we do in America.”
“Anyone who wants to win US elections should not attack gun laws”
According to Austrian-American lawyer Robin Lumsden, the reason why the US is the country with the most guns per capita can be attributed to “high personal responsibility for one’s own safety”. After the insane act at a Texas elementary school, there was “great dismay” across the country, as: “Despite their love of guns, Americans are not monsters.” The reason why nothing changes in the law is clear to him: “No politician who wants to win an election will attack this issue!” said Lumsden.
Amesbauer (FPÖ): “I have several weapons myself”
The Blues’ security spokesman, Hannes Amesberger, has several weapons at home as a hunter and shooter. “Self-protection is a fundamental right!” he explains. In that regard, he also understands the arguments of Donald Trump, who called for more weapons among the civilian population days after the terrible massacre. “It can make sense for reliable people to carry a gun.” Because: the weapon is only an object, the “evil” can only be the one who uses it.
Something has to change!”
The secretary general of the Austro-American Society, Rainer Newald, emphasizes that the situation in the US is not comparable to that in Europe, because access overseas is much easier. Nevertheless, Newad is sure that gun laws should change so that such outbursts can be prevented in the future. The only question is how. Here the Democrats have a different approach than the Republicans, who are sure that the problem is not the weapon, but the people.
Stricter gun laws in Austria too?
Do we also need stricter laws in Austria after the terror night in Vienna or the murder of women with firearms? The FPÖ politician is sure: “It is populist to always tighten a law immediately. We cannot fight femicide with that,” said Amesbauer.
The conversation with Katia Wagner can be seen every Wednesday at 8:15 pm on krone.tv. Vote and join the discussion!
Source: Krone
I’m Wayne Wickman, a professional journalist and author for Today Times Live. My specialty is covering global news and current events, offering readers a unique perspective on the world’s most pressing issues. I’m passionate about storytelling and helping people stay informed on the goings-on of our planet.
