Cluster bombs: solemn appeal to all government for a ban treaty with no exceptions!

Cluster bombs are weapons consisting of a canister containing submunitions known as bomblets. Designed to be scattered over wide areas, these bomblets inevitably land in civilian areas during bombings, inflicting carnage on the population. Between 5 and 30% (sometimes up to 40%) do not explode on impact. Like landmines, they can be triggered by the slightest contact, killing and mutilating people both during and after the fighting. In failing to distinguish between civilian zones and military targets, cluster bombs are in violation of the Geneva Convention.  

Today, the Oslo Process, in which 140 States are involved, aims at reaching an international treaty banning cluster munitions before the end of 2008. Therefore, this year could see a new crucial step in International Humanitarian Law. But the success of the process depends on the political will and commitment of all States. Some governments, like that of France is part of the process but intends to weaken the future treaty.