MISSING PIECES - Inter-Parliamentary Union

THEME 3
Contrary to common belief, bullets do not typically travel in a straight
line. Depending on the type of ammunition and other factors, the projectile
usually “tumbles” into a body (known as “yaw”), resulting in a wound
cavity that is much larger than the diametre of the bullet itself, and considerably
more traumatic. If the bullet fragments, each fragment will follow
a distinct path, thereby multiplying the effect of a single bullet. 12 Ammunition
design and control are important but long neglected issues for
consideration in small arms control processes. Parliamentarians can be
instrumental in controlling or banning inappropriate ammunition types,
and dangerous access.
. . . [T]he new ExtremeShock Explosive Entry tactical defense rounds
represent the ultimate refinement in lethal bullet technology. The
compressed Tungsten-NyTrilium Composite fragments upon impact,
leaving a wound channel of catastrophic proportions. 13
—Advertisement for a bullet
Immediate impacts from gunshots include soft tissue injuries, bone
fractures, and vital organ damage. Injuries to the extremities often result
in fractures, which if left untreated, may lead to haemorrhages and infections
or to permanent disability due to joint or bone deformities. Brain
and spinal cord injuries are more difficult to treat, leaving irreversible
damage such as paralysis, sexual dysfunction, limited movement, seizure
disorders, incontinence and severe facial disfigurations.
My body from the breast down, I couldn’t feel it. Imagine just seeing
shit in your bed without having felt it . . . I wanted to kill myself . . . I
promised myself that when I get discharged, I would drink everyday.
It was living hell . . . I felt as if I’m alive above my tummy, downwards
I felt dead. I even burned my legs with cigarettes.
—Erny, South Africa 14
Injuries and disabilities sustained through armed violence are also
associated with psychological problems and can result in flashbacks, anxiety
and fear, self-destructive behaviours, low self-esteem, depression, suicidal
behaviour and action, and alienation from friends and family. 15 As a result,
“health care professionals face complex issues related to acute care and
rehabilitation. Mental health professionals must be prepared to help gunshot
wound survivors cope with the psychological repercussions of their
injuries.” 16
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