In the wake of mass shootings in the United States, many Canadians express frustration over the country's gun control policies. They often compare the U.S. to other English-speaking nations, such as Canada, the United Kingdom, Australia, and New Zealand, which have enacted stricter gun laws following tragic events. Notable incidents include the École Polytechnique massacre in Canada in 1989, the Dunblane primary school shooting in Scotland in 1996, the Port Arthur massacre in Australia in 1996, and the Christchurch mosque shooting in New Zealand in 2019.

Despite these comparisons, there is little indication that the U.S. will adopt similar measures. Some argue that basic gun safety practices in American homes could prevent more child fatalities than focusing solely on school shootings.

In Canada, concerns about crime persist, particularly regarding young offenders. Many individuals arrested for violent crimes are often on bail, parole, or probation. This includes a 14-year-old girl involved in the murder of Kenneth Lee in Toronto in December 2022, who was out on bail when she allegedly stabbed another man. Another case involves a 14-year-old boy wanted for a double shooting, who is also accused of violating release orders for previous violent offenses. A 12-year-old was recently released on bail after being charged in a double shooting near Toronto.

These incidents raise questions about the effectiveness of the Canadian justice system in managing young offenders. Critics argue that the situation should be a pressing issue for political leaders, yet it often fails to gain the necessary attention.

The debate over self-defense laws has also intensified, particularly following high-profile cases of home invasions. Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre has called for fewer restrictions on self-defense, advocating for a law that would allow individuals to use force against intruders. This proposal has sparked discussions about the differences between Canadian and U.S. self-defense laws, with some Canadian commentators warning against adopting American-style legislation.

One notable case in Canada involved Gerald Stanley, a farmer acquitted of murder after shooting a man who attempted to steal from him. This case, along with others, highlights the complexities surrounding self-defense laws in Canada and the ongoing debate about how to balance personal safety with legal protections.