Action, Not Just Words: The Practical Implications of Human Rights Law for the Use of Force and Firearms by Law Enforcement Officials

Abstract

The author discusses the areas to be addressed if international human rights rules and standards applicable to the use of force and firearms are not to remain merely a theoretical concept, but are to be implemented in daily policing practice. These areas are the domestic legislation that must be formulated in conformity with international human rights law and the operational framework to be established by the command leadership of a law enforcement agency, including: operational policies and instructions for the use of force and firearms; the appropriate choice for equipment and weapons including instructions as to their use; practical scenario-based training of law enforcement officials that must seek to develop the skills and competencies required for daily policing work; and an effective system of accountability, in particular for unlawful use of force.