Shooting Bernese government against firearms training in schools
Bern's cantonal government does not want all ninth-graders with a Swiss passport to have to complete compulsory firearms training in future. It rejected a corresponding motion from the SVP, as can be seen from the response published on Monday.
26.08.2024, 14:58
SDA
There is a war going on in Europe, argue Members of Parliament Nils Fiechter and Thomas Fuchs. It is therefore "of immense importance that our people are able to defend themselves in an extreme emergency - even without basic military training". It is also important that young people - regardless of gender - learn how to handle weapons responsibly as early as possible.
Compulsory basic training should impart fundamental knowledge about the safe handling of firearms. Possible course content includes weaponry, safety rules, legal aspects and practical exercises. Pupils should also be given the opportunity to practice shooting under supervision.
According to the motion, the completion of a young shooters' course should also become compulsory. According to the Federal Shooting Ordinance, Swiss nationals aged 15 and over are eligible to take part.
"Not acceptable to the majority"
The government council rejects the proposal. Neither of the two mandatory requirements called for represent "adequate solutions in terms of content", and they are not capable of winning a majority either politically or socially. There were also organizational and financial questions.
For example, thousands of pupils at Bernese elementary school would have to be trained in the use of firearms by qualified persons every year. This could not be carried out by teachers.
The cantonal government believes that basic firearms training should continue to take place as part of extracurricular courses for young marksmen and in recruit school. In any case, the concerns of the motion's authors fall within the exclusive remit of the government.
If the Grand Council were to refer the motion, the cantonal government would therefore have quite a lot of leeway in implementing it.
