Amnesty International is launching a powerful film showing the devastating impact less-lethal weapons are having on protesters globally, with many suffering life-long injuries and permanent disabilities.
The new film, which features Leidy Cadena who was blinded by police in 2021 during a protest which was part of the National Strikes in Colombia, shows the devastating impact such weapons can have.
“Less lethal weapons, such as rubber bullets, tear gas and batons, have led to thousands of injuries across the world – including permanent disabilities and scores of deaths. This film illustrates the devastating impact they can have when they are misused,” said Patrick Wilcken, Amnesty International’s Researcher on Military, Security and Policing.
“While they have been promoted as safer alternatives to firearms, these weapons are frequently used unlawfully to harass, intimidate and punish protestors – in some cases causing life-long injuries. This has to stop. Amnesty International is campaigning for governments to act now and support the UN process to establish an international treaty to regulate the trade in policing equipment. While there are no effective global human rights-based controls in place, these horrific injuries will continue to happen, and more and more people will suffer lasting physical and psychological damage.”
- Published in
- United Kingdom
