Amnesty International is set to release a poignant short film that showcases the severe consequences of less-lethal weapons on protesters worldwide, many of whom endure lifelong injuries and permanent disabilities as a result.
This compelling film highlights the story of Leidy Cadena, who suffered blindness in one eye due to police violence during a 2021 protest in Colombia’s National Strikes. Her experience underscores the profound impact that such weaponry can have.
“Less-lethal weapons, including rubber bullets, tear gas, and batons, have resulted in thousands of injuries globally—leading to permanent disabilities and numerous fatalities. This film demonstrates the tragic consequences that can occur when these weapons are misused,” stated Patrick Wilcken, Amnesty International’s researcher specializing in military, security, and policing issues.
Although less-lethal weapons are marketed as safer alternatives to firearms, they are often employed unlawfully to intimidate, harass, and punish demonstrators, sometimes resulting in catastrophic, long-lasting injuries. Amnesty International is actively campaigning for governments to take immediate action to support United Nations efforts in establishing an international treaty to regulate the trade of policing equipment. Without effective global human rights-based controls, horrific injuries will persist, leaving many individuals with lasting physical and psychological scars.
Leidy Cadena remarked, “My eye is gone. I cannot change that. But the way these weapons are used? That can be changed. We need to bring the trade in law enforcement equipment under control.” Her statement highlights the importance of reforming the use of these weapons to protect civilians during protests.
Around the world, peaceful demonstrators face increasing repression from law enforcement and security forces, who aim to suppress dissent. While some of these weapons may have legitimate uses in law enforcement, their misuse can lead to severe injuries, particularly when deployed against protesters.
Leidy’s case is just one example amid numerous others. For instance, Payu Boonsophon, a 29-year-old from Thailand, was shot in the eye with a rubber bullet during a protest outside the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation Summit in 2022. Similarly, Gustavo Gatica, a 26-year-old from Chile, was permanently blinded in both eyes merely for participating in a demonstration against rising prices and inequality.
Joining her plea, Leidy Cadena advocates for the establishment of a Torture-Free Trade Treaty. “Despite my injury, my commitment to activism remains strong. We all have the right to protest peacefully without fear. Protesting is a powerful way to unite and express discontent,” she emphasized.
Amnesty International’s Protect the Protest campaign is urging governments around the globe to endorse the creation of a Torture-Free Trade Treaty to regulate law enforcement equipment trading, ensuring the protection of protesters everywhere.