The ongoing riots that are occurring in ever greater numbers throughout more and more cities, are testimony to the fact that there are inherent problems within our society, as many for some time have advocated. Speculation abounds regarding the causes, poverty, lack of education, and numerous other factors including parenting, however the one fact that is undeniable, is the fact that the individuals perpetrating these acts of violence have no interest in justice or concerns about the property or welfare of other individuals.
One of the key elements regarding how to deal with those who riot, is the human rights card, but as speculated by many on forums and blogs, those who infringe other peoples human rights, should not be allowed to utilise that as a valid defence, or as a means of escaping punishment. It has also been noted by the media, that the age group of many of the rioters, is generally seen to be within the teens to 25 age group, with some as young as seven or eight.
Perhaps the solution, as speculated by many, is to make parents accountable for the actions of their children. In terms of persistent offenders, the parents of the relevant child could receive some form of punishment, in whatever form. In essence responsibility is the key, whether it is for the individual or their children, the actions of parents have an undeniable effect on their offspring. There is no doubt that if parents were made accountable for the actions of their children, that many would take a sterner view and more responsibility when it comes to the welfare and actions of their offspring.
Whatever the potential solution, there are many who believe that Zero tolerance should be the overriding factor, when dealing with those who perpetrate violent criminal activity in whatever shape or form, and it appears by the ongoing political debate, it is becoming a popular position.