Self Defence

Self Defence
by Hanshi Jörgen Lindberg

Self-defence involves protecting oneself from threats or danger using various methods and techniques, encompassing both physical and non-physical defence depending on the situation. This is something I have learned during my over 20 years with the security company Securitas through training but also in real-life situations on the streets of Gothenburg.

I have compiled my accumulated personal life experience, work experience from the security industry, and the military into a book titled "Shit Happens." It offers advice and tips for creating personal security. This book, combined with my other book, "I Said No!" provides comprehensive coverage. Currently, I am updating both books for a second edition.

Methods of self-defence can vary and include:

• Physical Training: Developing physical strength and agility to react quickly and effectively when necessary. It is also beneficial for overall health, which, in my opinion, is part of personal self-defence.

• Self-defence Techniques: Learning specific techniques to defend against attacks, including escaping holds, striking, and kicking techniques. It's crucial to remember that in martial arts training, there might be techniques one can perform but may not be legally allowed to execute.

• Situation Awareness: Being aware of one's surroundings and identifying potential threats to either avoid them or prepare for them both inside and outside the home. This is not the same as being paranoid and living in constant fear.

• Verbal Defence: Using communication to de-escalate conflicts and avoid violence whenever possible. For instance, the late Swedish martial artist Bo Munthe used something he called "Verbal Judo," which he wrote books about, and I received as a gift from him, along with his book "Dirty Tricks."

• Confidence and Mental Strength: Developing confidence to act independently and decisively in stressful situations through training, education, and a positive outlook on life.

• Personal Safety Technology: Using safety equipment or devices to enhance personal safety inside and outside the home.

• Training to Avoid Dangerous Situations: Understanding risks and avoiding potentially dangerous places or situations both inside and outside the home through knowledge and information gathering.

It's important to note that self-defence is not necessarily about being aggressive but rather about protecting oneself and avoiding dangers when possible. Self-defence encompasses not only physical and mental violence but also other threats that can cause physical and mental harm or even death. Some examples include:

• Home fires
• Electricity
• Chemicals
• Gas leaks at home
• Traffic accidents

• General accidents
• Sudden illnesses like a heart attack
• Natural disasters
• Theft (not to be confused with robbery)
• Slip and fall injuries both inside and outside the home
• Internet-related threats such as scams, online banking, viruses, game addiction, etc.
• Dependencies on alcohol, drugs, medications, and gambling.

Here, personal responsibility for prevention and awareness plays a crucial and important role.

In an ultimate self-defence situation, it often involves adapting to specific circumstances. This may include a combination of avoiding dangers, using verbal communication to deflect threats, and ultimately using physical techniques if absolutely necessary to protect oneself. The goal is always to minimize risk and avoid conflict when possible.

Homicide in self-defence refers to situations where a person kills another as a last resort to protect their own life or the lives of others from immediate danger. Legally, this can be deemed justifiable in some situations depending on the legislation in the specific area.

It's important to emphasize that self-defence laws vary across different jurisdictions and may involve different criteria to be considered justified self-defence. Additionally, proportionality and immediate danger are often considered in evaluating such a situation. In many societies, it's generally best to avoid violence if possible and only use it when absolutely necessary for personal safety.

The right to self-defence refers to the right to use force or other means of compulsion in response to an ongoing or imminent attack to protect one's own or others' lives and health, safeguard one's property, and protect one's own and others' property.

It is often considered a legal principle justifying the use of force for self-defence purposes. However, the precise interpretation and application of the right to self-defence vary depending on legislation and jurisdiction. Laws usually establish conditions under which self-defence is justified, and it must be proportional and necessary to be deemed legal.

The right to self-defence can differ slightly or significantly between nations. Here are a few examples:

• In United States
  the, the application of the right to self-defence varies depending on state laws. Many states recognize the principle of self-defence and have laws allowing the use of force for defence purposes. The most well-known example is "stand your ground" laws, eliminating the duty to retreat before responding to threats with violence. Other states may apply "duty to retreat," where one is expected to retreat before using force, if possible, without endangering oneself.

• In Sweden,
  the right to defend your self is primarily regulated in the penal code. The right to self-defence gives an individual the right to use force or the threat of force to ward off an ongoing or imminent attack against oneself or someone else. The main principle is that the use of self-defence must be proportional and necessary to repel the attack. In a Swedish court, "fear" is typically included in the consideration of self-defence. This means that if you became afraid when attacked, it may be regarded as a self-defence action. Furthermore, there is the concept of "excess of self-defence," meaning that if the defender exceeds the limits of what is necessary in self-defence, they may be held responsible for the excess.
  
  It's important to note that Swedish laws are specific, and their interpretation may vary in different situations. In case of doubt or for detailed information, it is recommended to consult a legal expert or the police.

• In Turkey, the right to self-defence is, of course,
  governed by Turkish legislation. Generally, the right to self-defence allows an individual to use proportionate force to defend themselves or others from an immediate threat. The exact framework for the right to self-defence may vary depending on Turkish legislation and the interpretation of these laws.
  
  It's essential to seek information about the right to self-defence in Turkey from official sources such as legal texts or legal advisors to gain an accurate understanding of how this right is applied in Turkish law. Turkish law may be subject to changes, and the most up-to-date information should be obtained from authorized sources or legal experts.

• In England, the right to self-defence
  is mainly governed by "common law," which is a legal tradition based on court decisions and practices rather than written legislation. The principles of self-defence are recognized and have developed through case law over time. According to English law, a person may have the right to use force to defend themselves or others if there is a legitimate threat to life or serious harm. The force must be proportional and necessary in relation to the threat.
  
  These principles may be subject to interpretation and changes through case law, and there are also laws that can affect the right to self-defence in certain situations. It is recommended to consult current legislation or legal experts for specific information on the right to self-defence in England.

The rules for using firearms in self-defence vary in legal systems.
Generally, the use must be proportionate and necessary to ward off an immediate danger.

The right to self-defence varies across jurisdictions. In many countries, the use of firearms in self-defence must be proportional to the threat and used only as a last resort. Additionally, the threat must be immediate and imminent. Before considering using firearms for defence, it is crucial to understand and adhere to specific laws and regulations applicable in your region or country, ensuring you possess the required firearm license. Consult with a local legal expert for detailed and accurate advice.

The use of bladed weapons
in self-defence is also governed by laws and may vary depending on your country or region. Similar to firearms, the use must be proportional and necessary to thwart the threat. It's essential to be aware of the legislation in your jurisdiction and resort to violence only as a last resort.

The use of pepper spray in defence
is regulated and can vary depending on the legislation in your region. Many places permit the use of pepper spray for personal protection, but it's crucial to use it responsibly and in accordance with laws and regulations.

The use of a stun gun,
 is also subject to laws that vary across different countries and jurisdictions. Some allow stun guns for personal protection, while others may have strict rules or prohibitions. It is critical to be aware of and comply with local laws.

The use of a baseball bat,
is a favourite in movies and a common expression when one gets angry, may also be subject to legislation and rules in different countries. In some cases, it might be considered a legitimate self-defence method if it is proportional to the threat.

Ultimately, embedded in us genetically as an inherent right given by nature, both the ability and willingness to defend ourselves exist. A right that neither states, politicians, religions, nor laws can dismiss, no matter how much they may try. From a technical standpoint, most experienced martial artists know that the best defence is often a good offense, but legally it is generally judged the other way around. It ultimately rests on our personal responsibility, moral understanding, when, how, and where we unleash this genetic heritage.