Amnesty International has recently called for a global legally binding treaty to regulate electric shock equipment, in light of its pervasive misuse by law enforcement agencies. The group’s report highlights the use of devices such as stun guns and tasers in situations that contravene international human rights laws, often resulting in severe physical and psychological harm.
Amnesty points to the frequent misuse of these devices against protesters, activists, and marginalized groups, indicating an alarming lack of regulation. The resultant injuries are severe, ranging from burns and psychological trauma to miscarriages and fatalities. To mitigate potential discriminatory use, Amnesty urges the compilation of data disaggregated by demographic factors, including age, gender, and ethnic background.
The report also argues for the regulated use of projectile electric shock weapons (PESWs), stressing that their deployment should be restricted to scenarios where immediate threats to life or serious injury exist, insisting they should never be used in protests, detention centers, or mental health facilities.
Currently, at least 197 companies worldwide, predominantly in China, India, and the United States, manufacture or market these electric shock devices. Given this extensive production, Amnesty advocates for human rights-centric manufacturing processes, recommending a cessation in the production of close-range electrical equipment and modification of PESWs to eliminate more dangerous functionalities.
While the Convention against Torture and Other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment mandates states to prevent acts of torture, no current global treaties regulate the production or trade of electric shock devices. Amnesty’s call for a legally-binding treaty articulates a pressing need for decisive international regulation to counteract this oversight.
More details on Amnesty’s recent positions and ongoing campaign for stricter regulation can be found on their news release.