Hand-held Kinetic Impact Weapons 3.2 SPIKED BATONS Key Technical Features Human Rights Concerns Statements and Standards from Human Rights Bodies Examples of Existing Controls A baton with sharp spikes (or other protrusions), usually made from metal, but can be made of other materials such as hardened rubber, plastic, or wood. The use of spiked batons amounts to excessive force or cruel or inhuman treatment, possibly amounting to torture, as they cannot be used without inflicting excessive and unnecessary pain. Their use fulfils no legitimate law enforcement purpose that cannot be achieved through less harmful means. Special Rapporteur on Torture: spiked batons are listed as a type of inherently cruel, inhuman or degrading weapon. 88 OHCHR: “The use of [spiked batons] is widely considered to violate international human rights law. They should not be used in law enforcement” 89 The EU Anti-Torture Regulation prohibits the trade in this equipment. The US CCL controls the export of this equipment. Manufacture should be prohibited. Proposed Control Transfer should be prohibited. Use should be prohibited. UN HRC, Extra-custodial use of force and the prohibition of torture and other cruel, inhuman or degrading treatment or punishment: note / by the Secretary-General, 2017, para. 51. 88 89 OHCHR, UN Human rights guidance on less-lethal weapons in law enforcement, 2020, para 5.1. 67