Burglary

Breaking and entry

Nature

Burglary is surreptitiously entering or remaining in a building with the intent of committing a crime, whether theft, rape, robbery or kidnapping.

Background

Burglary emerged as a recognized social concern with the rise of urbanization in the 19th century, when increased population density and property accumulation highlighted its prevalence. Early criminological studies in Europe and North America documented patterns and impacts, prompting legislative and policing reforms. Over time, international crime statistics and victimization surveys, such as those by the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC), have underscored burglary’s persistent global significance and evolving methods. [https://www.unodc.org/unodc/en/data-and-analysis/statistics/crime.html]

Incidence

Neglecting national variations in the basis of statistical estimates, figures from Interpol indicate that in 1990 there were approximately 8,452,000 cases of breaking and entering reported from 91 countries worldwide, namely 279.0 per 100,000 population; some 1,527,000 (namely 18%) were claimed to have been resolved. In the UK over 1 million burglaries are reported each year. Burglaries account for a quarter of all crime, and are increasing a rate of 9% in 1993 (house burglaries by 12%). In 75% of burglaries where property is stolen, the average loss is an estimated £1,000. Less than 5% of stolen goods are actually recovered. Approximately 400,000 of the 1 million burglaries in the UK are facilitated by unlocked doors and insecure windows.

Claim

Burglary is a deeply serious problem that threatens the safety and well-being of individuals and communities. It shatters the sense of security people deserve in their own homes, causes emotional trauma, and results in significant financial loss. Ignoring burglary allows crime to flourish and erodes trust in society. We must prioritize stronger prevention, enforcement, and support for victims to combat this unacceptable violation of personal space and peace.

Counter-claim

Frankly, the concern over burglary is vastly overblown. With modern security systems, vigilant neighbors, and improved policing, the risk is minimal for most people. Media sensationalism makes it seem like a rampant issue, but statistics show it’s on the decline. There are far more pressing problems facing society today—focusing on burglary distracts from real challenges. It’s simply not the urgent crisis some make it out to be.