30 As mentioned above, some human rights bodies have called for the prohibition of or otherwise expressed concern regarding the use of projectile electric shock weapons in drive-stun mode. Such concerns are applicable to direct contact electric shock weapons in general. Their use creates an especially high risk of “inflicting pain or suffering so severe that it may amount to an element of torture or cruel, inhuman or degrading treatment or punishment”, and may increase an individual’s level of aggression.42 There is a lack of research into how the use of direct contact electric shock equipment affects vulnerable groups, including those with underlying health issues, children and elderly persons, or those who are under the influence of drugs or alcohol at the time of use. What monitors should observe and record • In what circumstances were the electric shock weapons used? • What kind of electric shock weapon was used? Monitors should try to record the shape and size, and take images or video, focusing on any logos, names or other markings that might identify the manufacturer or model. • How many times was the weapon used? Was it used repeatedly on the same person? • Was the electric shock weapon used to target an individual engaged in violent behaviour, or was it used indiscriminately? • On what area of the body was the weapon used? • Was a visible/audible spark function used to warn people that the weapon was going to be used and/or to intimidate those present? • Was a warning issued before the use of the electric shock weapon? How much in advance of the use was the warning issued? • Was medical help provided (by the police, medical service) to those affected by the electric shock weapon? Illustrative examples of health and human rights implications A law enforcement officer was alleged to have used a direct electric shock baton during an assembly held in one of the OSCE participating States in 2019. One of the assembly participants was in close proximity to the police officers when they turned towards the protesters. He tried to leave the area but did not manage to do so, as he was facing a line of police officers. 42 UN, Guidance on Less-Lethal Weapons in Law Enforcement, op. cit., note 7, para. 7.4.12.