Confronting the Global Crisis of Youth and Firearms in the Wake of Serbia’s First School Shooting

Abstract Issue School shootings reflect crucial systemic flaws, notably the ease of firearm access and training for children, despite rigorous firearm regulations. Description In May 2023, Serbia was rocked by its first school shooting in Belgrade, where a 13-year-old boy, armed with guns and Molotov cocktails, killed 9 and injured 6.His actions were amplified by his proficiency with firearms, a skill honed under his father’s guidance at shooting ranges. This tragic event ignited a nationwide debate on gun control. Our study seeks to attain an in-depth analysis on regulations on minimum age for firearm training in context of school shootings in Serbia and USA as countries with highest rates of civilian gun ownership globally. Results Serbian regulations lack a definitive minimum age for firearm training at shooting ranges, mirroring a situation in the USA, where 17 states do not have child access prevention laws, and 43 states lack mandated safe storage requirements. A worrying trend is the escalation in mass shootings by individuals aged 21 or younger, deviating from the earlier trend of middle-aged perpetrators. This younger demographic often seeks fame, inspired by previous mass shooters, contributing to the rise in both deliberate and accidental shootings by young people. Lessons We need to consider the implementation of regulations on minimum age for children firearm training at shooting ranges, as well as stricter control of the ranges. This problem extends beyond national boundaries, reflecting a global issue. The accessibility of firearms to youth, coupled with their developmental susceptibility to impulsive and aggressive behavior, raises significant concerns. Key messages • To increase global awareness and stricter regulations on youth firearm access, emphasizing the stricter regulations on shooting ranges and the integration of firearm safety education into curricula. • Firearm control and children safety is a collective international duty, crucial for addressing a concern that impacts public safety and youth welfare.