Inhumane methods of riot control

Nature

Many riot control methods are detrimental to health; although there are weapons that cause no longlasting distress to able-bodied people, the elderly, the sick and young children can be affected quite seriously.

Background

The global concern over inhumane methods of riot control emerged prominently in the late 20th century, as media coverage exposed excessive force and misuse of chemical agents against civilian demonstrators. International scrutiny intensified following incidents such as the 1989 Tiananmen Square crackdown and the 2019–2020 Hong Kong protests. Subsequent reports by organizations like Amnesty International and Human Rights Watch have documented recurring abuses, prompting ongoing debate about ethical standards and accountability in crowd management worldwide.

Incidence

Plastic and rubber bullets used by riot police as the first line of defence have killed 15 people in Northern Ireland between 1969 and 1986.

Claim

The use of riot control weapons seems to be dictated by the wish to discourage people from exercising their democratic rights of peaceful demonstration. The use of many weapons is indiscriminate and although theoretically safe, when used during a riot - a time of pressure - they can be mishandled.

Counter-claim

Concerns about inhumane methods of riot control are vastly overstated and do not constitute an important problem. Law enforcement must maintain order, and the tools they use are necessary for public safety. Focusing on the supposed inhumanity of these methods distracts from more pressing societal issues. The priority should be supporting authorities, not scrutinizing their tactics. Ultimately, this topic is exaggerated and does not warrant significant attention or concern.