"This short overview of the state of the crime levels and penal systems in the Scandinavian countries, as portrayed by available statistical sources, indicates that the crime level in Scandinavia (as regards traditional offences) is similar to or lower than that of other western European countries. The extent of drug abuse in the Scandinavian countries also appears to be on a par with or lower than it is in the rest of Europe. Increases in crime rates during the postwar period have been very substantial in the Scandinavian countries just as they have been elsewhere in Europe – indicating that the recorded increases in traditional crime in Europe may have common structural roots." (Quoted from paper)