Global Abuse of Tear Gas Exposed: Amnesty International's Alarming Investigation

Strategic Insights -

Amnesty International's new interactive website sheds light on the widespread misuse of tear gas by security forces in 22 countries around the world, highlighting alarming trends of police brutality and human rights violations. As protests erupt globally, including in Hong Kong, the US, and Paris, the organization warns that the UK-manufactured tear gas being used in these regions poses a significant risk to peaceful protesters. The investigation documents hundreds of cases of tear gas misuse, resulting in severe injuries and deaths, and underscores the need for international regulation on the trade and use of this chemical weapon.

Key Takeaways:

  • Amnesty International's investigation analyzed over 500 videos and 80 events in 22 countries and territories, confirming widespread misuse of tear gas by security forces.
  • The organization documented various forms of abuse, including firing into confined spaces, using excessive quantities, and targeting vulnerable groups such as children, older people, and people with disabilities.
  • Specific cases highlighted include the use of tear gas against peaceful protesters in Hong Kong, the US, and other countries, resulting in severe injuries and fatalities.
  • Amnesty International calls for international regulations on the trade and use of tear gas and other riot control agents, citing a lack of oversight in the industry.
  • The organization joins the UN Special Rapporteur on Torture in equating the use of tear gas in certain situations as amounting to torture or other ill-treatment.
  • Manufacturers of tear gas and related launchers, including Cavim, Condor Non-Lethal Technologies, DJI, Falken, PepperBall, Safariland Group, and Tippmann Sports LLC, have been contacted by Amnesty International for comment, with only one responding.

Statistics:

  • Over 500 videos analyzed by Amnesty International's Crisis Evidence Lab to document tear gas misuse worldwide.
  • Almost 80 events in 22 countries and territories where tear gas has been misused, confirming the location, date, and validity.
  • 70-year-old cardiac arrest patient died after a tear gas canister was thrown under his bed in Sudan.
  • 10 patients injured when security forces filled a hospital emergency room with tear gas in Sudan.
  • Tear gas canisters have been fired at peaceful protesters in Hong Kong, the US, and other countries, resulting in severe injuries and fatalities.

Sources:

  • Amnesty International website: [www.amnesty.org](http://www.amnesty.org)
  • Amnesty's Interactive Website: [www.teargasinvestigation.amnesty.org](http://www.teargasinvestigation.amnesty.org)
  • UN Special Rapporteur on Torture: [www.ohchr.org/EN/Issues/Torture/Pages/QuestionnaireTeargas.aspx](http://www.ohchr.org/EN/Issues/Torture/Pages/QuestionnaireTeargas.aspx)
  • Alliance for Torture-Free Trade: [www.alliancetorturefreetrade.org](http://www.alliancetorturefreetrade.org)
  • Omega Research Foundation: [www.omega-research.org](http://www.omega-research.org)