in Glasgow, Scotland, a peaceful method drastically reduces violence in a sensitive neighborhood

Twenty years ago, Glasgow was dubbed the “murder capital” of Europe. And for good reason: 170 gangs raged in the Scottish city and more than 40 murders were recorded there each year.

The “G20” district, so nicknamed in reference to its postal code, was the most violent. Two decades later, if misery still reigns there, crimes have dropped sharply. Thanks to police officers using a specific method, gang fights have decreased by 70% in the neighborhood.

“Giving hope for the future”

Karyn McCluskey, currently Chief Community Justice Scotland, welcomes the results. Twenty years ago, she created the Violence Reduction Unit. One of its actions is to ensure a benevolent police presence with young people through a place offering a reception seven days a week.

“The hospitals were overwhelmed by young people with very deep wounds, testifies the founder of the unit. We called it an epidemic. And we opted for prevention, exactly as in the case of a disease. How do you catch it? What are the causes ? Domestic violence, alcohol, drugs? […] We have to give them a goal, a hope for the future.”

Excerpt from “Stopping violence: the Scottish method”, broadcast in “We the Europeans” on April 6, 2023.

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