Introduction
Crime control is one of the main priorities for any nation, and several organizations, except the police and the government, are involved in making sufficient decisions and policies. In Canada, the crime levels vary depending on the region: Ontario or Quebec citizens know almost nothing about crimes compared to people living in Manitoba or Nunavut. Still, compared to the United States, Canada seems free from crimes. This paper will pay attention to the overall crime situation in Canada, my personal knowledge and experiences, and current and future perspectives on crime control in the country. Some people might know nothing about Canada, and my purpose is to share my thoughts on the crime theme to improve the attitudes of foreigners toward the country.
The Problem of Crime in Canada
In my opinion, a crime is a human activity defined as illegal by the law and characterized by the importance of punishment, depending on its severity and outcomes. Today, people may be exposed to a variety of crimes, including cybercrime, shoplifting, robbery, kidnapping, bribery, and murder. While some crimes remain poorly reported and discussed, much information can be obtained from ordinary citizens who might witness injustice on the street or at home. I think any crime creates several problems for the community and the nation, negatively affecting the reputation and the desire to visit the country.
However, in modern Canada, the problem of crime is not significant. Sometimes, predicting human behaviors and crimes is hard, but the police and law enforcement work well to ensure national safety and order. I consider shoplifting, sexual assault, and robbery the biggest problem in Canada from a crime-related perspective. Still, their ratings are never too high to put citizens and guests at risk.
Crime Situation in Canada vs. Other Countries
I believe the crime situation in Canada is not as critical and devastating as in the United States or South Africa. Americans are constantly reporting different crimes that disrupt their lives, underlying the importance of dealing with social injustice, racism, sexism, and poverty that become common reasons for violent behaviors. Despite the intention to create a fair and democratic world, the United States remains one of the countries where racial biases bother millions of people.
The main problem is that police officers are usually involved in racially-provoked crimes because of prejudiced judgments and wrong decisions. South Africa has even more dangerous crime ratings because it is known for its violent murders and kidnappings. Compared to Americans and South Africans, Canadians are primarily committed to creating open and trusted environments where people understand the threat of crimes and try to do everything possible to reduce the numbers.
Sources about Crimes, My Personal Experiences, and Crime Knowledge
Today, it is not hard to find information about crimes or similar statistics online. However, when there is no Internet or phone, it is high time to recollect personal memories and apply some background knowledge. I remember I read one article from The New York Times and learned that there is a significant shift in the American crime system: although murders have recently declined, street crimes still bother citizens (Lopez, 2022). Thinking about crimes in Canada, I cannot help but admire my positive emotions about walking across the streets of my native city and enjoying the beauty created by ordinary people. I consider myself lucky because none of my friends or relatives ever say some terrifying crime-related stories. Thus, I would like to underline that Canada is the safest place for me worldwide.
Current Crime Policies in Canada
A lot has already been done about crime situations in Canada, and most initiatives have been proclaimed effective. On the one hand, the federal Parliament aims to enact criminal laws and follow the Constitution’s standards. On the other hand, local governments in Canadian provinces and territories are responsible for criminal justice and order. In Northwest Territories and Nunavut, the crime situation bothers the locals, while the citizens of British Columbia, Quebec, and Ontario do not recognize serious threats.
The police have several roles and obligations to maintain peace and patrol the streets to respond urgently. In my native city, constables’ primary mission is to keep order and public security, prevent crimes, and punish offenders according to the law. Regarding my personal experience and observations, I think law enforcement representatives work great because I have never faced severe injustice or, what is more dangerous, murders in my neighborhood.
The Future of Crime in Canada
Countering crimes remains vital for many local, regional, or national organizations in Canada. At this moment, I do not have much information about what has officially been done to predict and control crimes. Still, I am confident that much depends on the population and the attitudes people develop toward their homes and communities. Therefore, public education, social services, and cooperation between the police and citizens must be increased to ensure individuals know enough about crimes. The government should never stop gathering recent statistics about social, health, and cultural problems, demographic factors, and financial issues that may create another reason for a crime.
Conclusion
In Canada, the crime situation is not as dramatic as one would think. Compared to developed and developing countries, the Canadian government does everything possible to create favorable conditions for citizens and visitors. Much depends on the region, but most territories are safe. Sometimes, people’s behaviors are hard to predict or understand, but Canadians continue their personal and community development to ensure the main humanistic, ethical, and legal principles are followed and respected.
Reference
Lopez, G. (2022). A shift in crime. The New York Times. Web.