Over the past few decades, mass shootings at schools, universities, and youth centers in Europe have remained relatively rare compared to the United States. The most notorious incidents, such as the 1996 Dunblane massacre in Scotland and the 2002 Strasbourg shooting in France, have prompted European governments to take significant steps in strengthening gun control laws.
European nations have implemented measures such as banning semi-automatic weapons, enforcing rigorous background checks, and promoting school safety programs. These efforts reflect a broader commitment to reducing the risk of gun violence, particularly in educational settings. While the rate of school shootings in Europe is still lower than in the US, policymakers continue to debate the most effective strategies for preventing such tragedies.
Experts argue that the combination of strict gun regulations and a cultural emphasis on collective safety has contributed to the low incidence of school shootings in Europe. However, the psychological and social impacts of these incidents remain a subject of ongoing discussion and research.