Legal Issues Concerning Military Use Of Non-Lethal Weapons
AbstractThe use of non-lethal weapons provides for better protection of the civilian population during conflicts. There is greater flexibility for crowd control during civil unrest and military confrontations. A reduction in the combatant casualties is achieved by the use of variety of non-lethal weapons available. The introduction of non-lethal weapons may be a strategy to prevent war, paralyse the enemy and decrease their fighting ability. But the use of some of these weapons such as microbes would violate international conventions. Training in the operation of these weapons and rules of engagement are required to prevent unlawful exploitation with resultant less-than- lethal results. The promotion of the legal use of non-lethal weapons would minimize fatalities and protect personnel and property. |