In 2024 and 2025, Bermuda has experienced a tragic and alarming rise in gun-related deaths, with nine homicides over that period representing the highest figures ever recorded.

These statistics are not just numbers; they represent families shattered, communities traumatised and a nation at a crossroads.

The relentless spike in gun violence underscores a crisis that transcends crime, requiring us to confront it as what it truly is: a public health epidemic.

Gun violence is a public health crisis in Bermuda. Its impacts ripple through every aspect of our society. It is easy to see the physical toll — families losing loved ones, children growing up amid violence — yet the deeper, long-lasting effects are often less visible but equally devastating.

Trauma, depression, anxiety

Exposure to violence, whether directly or indirectly, increases the risk of long-term mental health disorders. Community members, especially youth, suffer from fear, grief and a sense of hopelessness that can persist through generations. Mental health facilities are stretched thin, unable to sufficiently address the rising demand for counselling and trauma support.

Healthcare system strain

Incidents of gun violence demand immediate emergency responses, surgical interventions and long-term rehabilitative care. This diverts essential resources from other crucial health needs such as chronic disease management, maternal health and preventive care.

Economic and social costs

Gun violence limits economic development, discourages tourism and drives away local investment. It stifles educational opportunities, as schools become unsafe spaces, and impacts workforce productivity. Communities affected by violence often face cycles of poverty and social exclusion, trapping residents in a state of systemic disadvantage.

Generational trauma

The recurrent cycle of violence fosters widespread trauma, profoundly affecting mental health and future outlooks among Bermuda’s youth. The hope of a safe, secure environment diminishes, replacing aspirations with fear.

For historical context, we should look no farther than the late 1990s. Bermuda’s political landscape has seen multiple efforts to curb gang violence, mostly under the leadership of the Progressive Labour Party. But, despite various plans, policies and public statements, progress has been limited. The core issues — poverty, lack of youth opportunity and social disconnection — are complex and deeply rooted, yet they demand sustained and strategic responses.

Many argue that Bermuda’s approach to tackling gang violence has been fragmented — focused on enforcement rather than prevention, on punishment rather than rehabilitation. The repeated failure of temporary measures reveals a lack of innovative, evidence-based solutions. It is clear that without comprehensive social programmes, mental health support, education reforms and economic opportunities, this epidemic will continue to claim lives.

The Government needs a greater sense of urgency to prevent a broader national crisis. It is imperative for David Burt, the Premier, to recognise that Bermuda is battling multiple crises simultaneously: an affordable housing crisis, a struggling education system, overwhelmed hospitals, ageing infrastructure, a burgeoning national debt, and an emigration of Bermudians seeking cheaper living abroad. Yet, amid these pressing issues, our community continues to haemorrhage because of gun violence.

Why continue to engage in international alliances such as Caricom while ignoring the internal epidemic threatening our people’s health and safety?

It is akin to putting a bandage on a deep wound — temporary relief without addressing the root causes.

The truth is, the proliferation of gang violence and gun deaths is a public health emergency that requires the same level of urgency and co-ordinated response as the Covid-19 pandemic or national disasters.

My call for political accountability and community action is apolitical. Frankly , I don’t give a damn about the political optics. I am a community advocate whose qualifications include being a father, grandfather, great-grandfather, senior, disabled blind person and a military veteran of 45 years’ experience who loves his island.

I have spoken with countless residents from all walks of life. The consensus is clear: the strategies in play by the Minister of National Security, Michael Weeks, anti-gang co-ordinator Leroy Bean, and the Government are inadequate. Their approaches lack the necessary boldness, co-ordination and accountability.

The recent criticism by shadow minister Robert King highlights the urgency for real change. His courage in challenging systemic failures while facing political opposition is commendable and necessary. Bermuda needs leaders willing to confront tough truths and implement long-term solutions.

It is time for us to demand action from those in power. I urge all Bermudians — parents, teachers, community activists, health professionals and concerned citizens — to petition the Governor and the British Government.

Bermuda’s national security and public health are under their oversight, as enshrined in the Bermuda Constitution Order 1968. Bermuda’s ties to Britain afford us a unique opportunity for intervention.

Drawing inspiration from our history and national heroes such as E.F. Gordon, who fought tirelessly for social justice and community support, we must now advocate for a comprehensive, national approach.

I will be seeking support from community organisations such as Mothers On A Mission, led by Nicole Fox, schools and churches to rally signatures on a petition demanding that the British authorities intervene to stem Bermuda’s gun violence epidemic — it would be a clear and urgent step to protect our community’s health and future.

Let’s build a community-led solution.

• Clifton Lambert, a retired sergeant major in the Royal Bermuda Regiment, was a One Bermuda Alliance candidate in St George’s South (Constituency 4) in the February 2025 General Election