Iraq: Response to demonstrations and disorder shockingly inadequate
Amnesty International expressed concern today at the continuing violence in the northern city of Mosul. At least three
people were killed and 12 injured, including two children, during an incident yesterday in which US forces exchanged
gunfire during a demonstration near the governor's building.
Coming only one day after 10 people were killed and 16 wounded in a similar incident, these latest killings raise real
concerns about the protection of civilian lives and of their right to freedom of expression and assembly.
"The response to demonstrations and public disorder on the part of coalition troops has been shockingly inadequate and
there are concerns that the US forces may have used excessive force.The first taste of the Coalition's approach to law
and order will not have inspired confidence in the Iraqi people," Amnesty International said.
"US authorities should conduct an impartial, independent and thorough investigation into the incidents to establish
whether troops responded with excessive use of force."
Amnesty International calls on the USA and the UK to deploy forces in sufficient numbers and with the right training and
equipment to restore law and order, until Iraqi police forces can operate effectively. An effective and fair vetting
procedure for members of the Iraqi police forces should be set up urgently, so as to reduce the chance of restoring to
their duties officials who may have been involved in human rights violations. In exercising or supervising policing
functions, the USA and the UK must ensure that the rights of freedom of expression and assembly are not arbitrarily
restricted.
Background
US and UK forces, as the occupying power, are under an obligation to implement human rights and humanitarian law in the
areas under their control. The Basic Principles on the Use of Force and Firearms by the Law Enforcement Officials -
including police and soldiers - require that use of force and firearms should be a last resort, and used "only if other
means remain ineffective or without any promise of achieving the desired result". (Principle 4) whenever force or
firearms are used this should be proportionate to the seriousness of the offence and the legitimate objective to be
achieved; and minimize damage and injury.
For a full copy of Amnesty International's report "Iraq: Responsibilities of the occupying powers" please go to:
http://click.topica.com/maaa0wGaaXrZubb0hPub/
Iraq crisis home page: http://click.topica.com/maaa0wGaaXrZvbb0hPub/ Act now to protect human rights in Iraq: http://click.topica.com/maaa0wGaaXrZwbb0hPub/