“My Eye Exploded”: the Global Abuse of Kinetic Impact Projectiles

Report from Amnesty International and Omega Foundation:

Across the world peaceful protesters have faced waves of repression from police and military forces in deliberate attempts to crush dissent. While less lethal weapons are promoted as safer alternatives to firearms, all too often these weapons are used unlawfully to harass, intimidate, punish or drive away protesters, undermining their right to peaceful assembly.

This briefing explores the widespread, global misuse of kinetic impact projectiles (KIPs), often called rubber or plastic bullets, in the policing of public assembly. It also examines the gaps in the regulation of their manufacture, use and trade, and looks at other types of projectiles, such as metal shot (which is not designed for use in law enforcement, is particularly dangerous, and whose use in law enforcement must be prohibited). Finally, it examines the unlawful use of tear gas grenades as projectiles fired directly against individuals, or at low angles into crowds, which is a disturbing global trend that has led to hundreds of serious injuries and some deaths.

Read full report: “My Eye Exploded”: The Global Abuse of Kinetic Impact Projectiles

Year: 2023
Resource Type:
Report
Themes:
Activism
Human Rights
Policing
Protests
Region:
Global
Africa
Australia & the Pacific Islands
Asia
Europe
Latin America & the Caribbean
Middle East
North America
People Groups:
Activists
People in Detention
Duty Bearers
Approach:
Advocacy
Research
Policy Reform
Campaign Partner:
Amnesty International – Madagascar