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The Cluster Munitions Convention
In November 2006, the Norwegian Government led some 46 countries towards concluding a treaty to ban cluster munitions causing unacceptable harm to civilians. Dubbed the 'Oslo Process', it steadily gained momentum with subsequent meetings in Lima and Vienna. More than 130 states, including Australia, took part in the discussions on treaty text in Vienna. As part of this process the Dublin Diplomatic Conference on Cluster Munitions was held in May 2008
At this conference, 110 States agreed to sign a historic international treaty that prohibits the use, production, stockpiling and transfer of cluster munitions. The Convention commits States to clearing areas contaminated with unexploded cluster munitions and providing assistance for victims and their communities.
'The ICRC has regularly witnessed the terrible impact of cluster munitions on civilians,' stated Jakob Kellenberger, president of the ICRC.
'The Convention adopted in Dublin means that these weapons are not only morally unacceptable but also now illegal under international humanitarian law. When implemented, it will prevent tremendous civilian suffering.'
The ICRC urges all States to adhere to the Cluster Munitions Convention in the future and calls on them to end the use of cluster munitions prohibited by the Convention, regardless of whether they have participated in the Dublin negotiations or not.
The Cluster Munitions Convention will be opened for signature in Oslo in early December 2008 and will enter into force once 30 States have deposited their instruments of ratification with the UN Secretary General.
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