ISSUES OF GUNS AND AMMUNITION AFFECTING VIOLENCE

Abstract

The objectives of this article are 1) to analyze the issues and obstacles of laws in relation to firearm control in Thailand and 2) to study the firearm measurements of other 3 countries namely USA, Japan, and England in order to propose guidelines for appropriate amendments to the Firearms, Ammunition, Explosives, Fireworks and Imitation Firearms Act, B.E.2490. The significant problems from this Act include unclear provisions, and the inappropriateness of rules and discretion that are used to permit the possession, carry, and use of firearms. Therefore, the said Act should be appropriately amended in accordance with the principles of the social contract that the state must be responsible for the peace and security of the people. Validity and clarity are required in the provisions of the acts in terms of formats and contents, which affect the decision-making of people seeking to possess, use or carry firearms, when considering with their necessity.