Opinion by Nguyen Ayi
Gun violence is a major problem in the United States, with an average of 100 deaths per day due to firearms. In contrast, Vietnam has extremely strict gun laws and a low rate of gun-related deaths. The question is, why is there such a difference between the two countries?
It’s important to understand the cultural differences between the US and Vietnam. The US has a strong culture of individualism and the right to bear arms, whereas Vietnam has a collectivist culture and a strong emphasis on community safety.
Secondly, the availability of guns plays a major role. In the US, it’s relatively easy to obtain a gun, even for those with a history of mental illness or criminal activity. In Vietnam, however, it’s extremely difficult to obtain a gun legally, with only law enforcement officials and military personnel being allowed to carry firearms.
The role of government policy cannot be ignored. In the US, there is significant resistance to gun control measures due to the Second Amendment of the Constitution. In Vietnam, the government has taken a strong stance on gun control and has implemented strict laws to prevent the illegal possession of firearms.
Overall, the difference in gun violence rates between the US and Vietnam can be attributed to a combination of cultural differences, gun availability, and government policy. While there are certainly lessons that can be learned from Vietnam’s approach to gun control, it’s clear that significant changes are needed in the US to address the epidemic of gun violence.
