A groundbreaking report by Physicians for Human Rights and the International Network of Civil Liberties Organizations reveals that tear gas, rubber bullets, and chemical irritants have caused at least 119,000 injuries globally since 2015. The study highlights widespread health risks and human rights concerns linked to crowd-control devices, which remain largely unregulated despite their frequent use by authorities during protests and public gatherings.
The research underscores the underreported toll of these weapons, including respiratory damage, traumatic injuries, and long-term disabilities. Experts warn that lack of standardized protocols and accountability mechanisms puts both civilians and law enforcement at risk.
‘These findings demand urgent international dialogue,’ said a lead researcher. ‘We need transparent tracking systems and evidence-based guidelines to balance public safety with fundamental rights.’ The report calls for reforms targeting manufacturers, governments, and international bodies ahead of key UN human rights discussions in 2024.
Reference(s):
Crowd control weapons have injured 119,000 people since 2015: Report
cgtn.com
