School shooting in Graz: What lessons do we have to learn now?

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On June 10, 2025, important findings from the shooting spree in Graz as well as details of the weapons psychological report will be discussed.

Am 10.06.2025 werden wichtige Erkenntnisse aus dem Amoklauf in Graz sowie Details zum Waffenpsychologischen Gutachten behandelt.
On June 10, 2025, important findings from the shooting spree in Graz as well as details of the weapons psychological report will be discussed.

School shooting in Graz: What lessons do we have to learn now?

The shocking rampage in Graz, which left numerous people dead and injured, is once again raising questions about the safety of using firearms. According to a report by FAZ The events took place over the weekend in a busy shopping area while many people were out and about. The act raised public awareness of the dangers of external violence and refreshed the discussion about gun legislation and the requirements for gun purchasers.

The Implementing Ordinance for the Weapons Act (WaffV) has been in effect in Austria since July 1, 1997. Applicants for a gun ownership card or a gun passport must submit a psychological report, which is prepared by the authorities, as shown on ppph is presented. The report includes an in-depth reliability check and consists of several phases, including a personal conversation about the desire to own a firearm. If the result is positive, the report is immediately forwarded to the responsible authority.

Psychological assessment before acquisition

The assessments are crucial because they test for emotional stability, social adaptability and self-control. The entire process takes approximately 1.5 to 2 hours and also includes computer-assisted testing. However, paid reports are no guarantee of a gun ownership card, as even negative results can mobilize discussions and tests. These requirements are intended to ensure that only mentally stable people are allowed to handle firearms.

The financial requirements for applying for a gun ownership card or a gun passport are around 236 euros plus 20% VAT. A further examination costs 270 euros, while abnormalities can cost up to 506 euros. This illustrates that access to firearms requires not only a personal hurdle, but also an economic one.

The discussion about safety in gun laws is not only reignited by the shooting in Graz, but also shows the need to strengthen preventative measures and question existing processes. It remains to be seen what political and social reactions the incident will provoke and whether gun laws will be reformed.

The lessons learned from the tragedy require not just a rapid response, but a long-term commitment to improving community safety and firearms management.