Issue: № 1, 2025
Doi: https://doi.org/10.37634/efp.2025.1.9
Introduction. The paper examines the pressing issue for Ukraine regarding the legalization of civilian firearms, focusing on the study of European experience. The absence of a specific law regulating civilian firearms circulation in Ukraine and the need to develop a balanced policy in this area necessitate a detailed analysis of the legislation and practices of European countries. Particular attention is given to the mechanisms of control and the assessment of the impact of firearm legalization on crime rates to ensure a balance between citizens' right to protection and the maintenance of public safety. The purpose of the paper is to analyze the regulatory framework and enforcement practices of selected European countries in the field of civilian firearms legalization to evaluate the possibility of implementing their experience in Ukraine. This evaluation is carried out with a focus on ensuring a balance between citizens' right to self-defense and the preservation of public safety. Results. The paper analyzes the experience of the Czech Republic and Switzerland in the legal regulation of civilian firearms circulation. The study identifies the key features of both models, including licensing procedures, weapon categorization, requirements for potential owners, and control mechanisms. The research shows that the Czech model is characterized by strict control and clearly defined conditions for acquiring the right to own firearms, whereas the Swiss approach largely relies on centuries-old military traditions and an established culture of responsible firearm ownership, which has developed due to the country’s unique military organization system. Moreover, based on statistical data, the study established that a high level of civilian firearm ownership in both countries does not lead to an increase in crime rates. For instance, in the Czech Republic, between 2003 and 2023, violent crime rates decreased by 41.3%, and the number of homicides dropped by 31.5%. Similarly, Switzerland maintains a consistently low crime rate despite having one of the highest firearm ownership rates in Europe (27.6 firearms per 100 residents). Conclusion. The experiences of both countries demonstrate different but effective approaches to regulating civilian firearms circulation. These approaches are based on clear conditions for acquiring firearm ownership, comprehensive assessment of owners, and systematic control. The positive results of these models, supported by statistical data, suggest the possibility of their adaptation in the development of relevant legislation in Ukraine, considering the country’s national characteristics.
Keywords : arms, civilian firearms, arms circulation, right to self-defense, Czech Republic experience, Swiss experience, public security, legal regulation of firearms, firearms legalization, firearms licensing
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