NCJ Number
164117
Date Published
1996
Length
19 pages
Annotation
This United Nations (UN) report was prepared in response to an Economic and Social Council resolution on the use of force and firearms by law enforcement officials; drawing on the experience gained from previous surveys, the report takes into account specific recommendations made by the Commission on Crime Prevention and Criminal Justice.
Abstract
Information received from 65 member countries indicates that provisions of the UN Code of Conduct for Law Enforcement Officials and Basic Principles on the Use of Force and Firearms by Law Enforcement Officials are considered to be important and are incorporated into or covered by legislation and practice. With respect to torture, most countries report full compliance with relevant international conventions and standards. Medical services available to detainees appear to be sufficient in most countries. In the area of corruption, investigative agencies in some countries have developed expertise in dealing with corruption by law enforcement officials, especially when corruption is associated with organized crime or with drug abuse and trafficking. With regard to the use of force and firearms by police, most countries comply with international standards. Many governments have established screening procedures for law enforcement personnel selection. Several countries, however, lack the funds to conduct needed training and lack qualified trainers. The impact of UN standards on legislation and practice in member countries is discussed. 1 note and 2 tables