Citation

Morton JS. Australas. J. Hum. Secur. 2006; 2(1): 19.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2006, Egan-Reid)

DOI

unavailable

PMID

unavailable

Abstract

The legality of depleted uranium (DU) munitions, used in tank-killing projectiles and protective armour, has been hotly debated for more than a decade. Exposure to DU by peacekeepers in the Balkans reignited accusations that the use of DU creates health and environmental harm inconsistent with prevailing laws of armed conflict. At present, there is no international treaty that specifically prohibits or regulates the use of DU munitions. Scientific studies undertaken to determine the health and environmental threats posed by DU have provided both advocates and critics of DU munitions with ample reason to remain steadfast in their positions. This paper examines the debate revolving around DU munitions from the perspective of international humanitarian law. The aim of this paper is to provide a basis for the regulation of DU that neither bans nor endorses the materials use in arsenals. The proposed treaty principles would, however, provide greater protections for unintended victims of DU exposure and would establish a basis from which to continue the discussion of the legal status of DU munitions.

Language: en