I assume you're American.
Hazings are most common aboard (cargo) ships, the military, sports clubs and student clubs.
I disapprove of these practices at work, but when you're forced to work together for months, if not years, in confined spaces... I'd argue an intitation ritual of some sort is necessary, makes appectance by the old guard easier.
As I understand it, Americans generally do not approve of this and supervision by outsiders is very limited, scandals are common, etc.
My country is well known for its burgundian outlook on life: eat good food and drink fine wine/ beer.
There's a reason we're famous for our beer across the globe.
The age of consent is 16 here, same with drinking, to give you some perspective.
The Benelux has student clubs imbedded in its higher education and they all have a different theme, emblem, color scheme, etc. Some may focus on studying, others on networking, most on having fun.
They aren't compulsory, you join of your own free will and get access to certain events (parties, cantus, ski trip).
They compete, drink, study and help each other when organising big events (a cantus in the town square).
In order to join the vast majority of these clubs,a hazing (baptism) of some sort has to be undergone by joinees.
Rituals vary from club to club (as does the span of time). An average baptism in my city would be: 2 weeks, the rituals involved vary, although most involve drinking, getting filthy and learning songs and names by heart.
Afterwards, you'll be assigned to a personal supervisor and will have to play errand boy for the rest of the year, for the club as well as your 'owner'.
In practice, you'll have to clean up the hangout, do stupid shit for the supervisor, have a nickname and you'll have to wear a sash to club events at all times.
If you can't make it because you have to study or because of an emergency they'll understand.
At the end of the year there is a final ritual in which you are allowed to wear your sash correctly (right shoulder, left side) and you're officialy a member. Depending on your deeds and reputation, the club may even elect you for a higher position next year.
Baptism is an accepted and supervised practice with clear laws in place.
There is a codex everyone has to follow, as well as police supervision during the baptism periods and around hangouts in general. That said, it does get out of hand sometimes.
4 years ago, someone died of being thrown down the stairs between 2 matresses, that club has refused baptisms since.
Depending on the rituals your club prefer, you can end up with alcohol poisoning, although most clubs will switch you to water when they see things getting out of hand.
Clubs are often accused of sexism, and while they are clearly male-dominated, most clubs have a 4:6 female to male ratio with women in leadership positions being 1:2,5.
Strict fraternities and sororities are rare where I live.
Rape is practically nonexistent.
There are no heartfelt testimonies of people being traumatised by their experiences, as there are always more casual organisations to join.
Some clubs are elitist and look down on other clubs, but considering the sheer amount on offer, such gripes are inconsequential and barely ever become violent.
Not to mention, both colleges and universities have clubs and they can range from being tied to institutions, to certain locations, to degrees, gender, sexuality or simply a desire for partying.
