Identification tools

Accurate reporting on the trade and use of military, security and police (MSP) equipment is essential if there is to be effective oversight and accountability for actors involved in irresponsible transfers of weapons used to perpetrate human rights violations. These identification tools largely focus on police and security equipment that is often used for torture or other cruel, inhuman or degrading treatment or punishment. They seek to help monitors, researchers, campaigners and trade control officials to identify the equipment, and to increase their knowledge on potential concerns associated with different types of equipment.

We recommend that those who are just beginning to learn about this equipment begin by browsing through the Visual Glossary, which includes images and key information on some of the most frequently used types of law enforcement weapons and equipment.