[DonVoigt]

I believe it is not possible to compare a small country, with an essentially homogeneous population with a very large country with a varied population.

As someone once said, "one can prove anything with statistics".

First time I flew into the Netherlands, I was amazed to see military and police with submachine guns walking around the airport in groups of three; this was in 1988. So - yeah- you feel safer with that kind of police presence- but it was more than unpleasant to think it was necessary.

We still don't have that presence in US airports.

Safer? When you need serious help, call the police- they will be along in 10 or 30 minutes; or reach for your own legal weapon. You choose.

JMHO.