GENEVA, SWITZERLAND (HRNW) — Human Rights Watch is calling for renewed international action to protect civilians from cluster munitions, warning that rising civilian deaths and injuries demonstrate the continuing humanitarian danger posed by the weapons.
In a September 8 statement, Human Rights Watch said the increase in civilian casualties from cluster munitions should prompt the 124 states party to the Convention on Cluster Munitions to strengthen efforts to prevent their use and assist affected communities.
The organization said cluster munitions can cause devastating immediate casualties while unexploded submunitions can remain dangerous long after fighting ends.
Human Rights Watch is urging governments to strengthen implementation of the international treaty, including measures addressing clearance of contaminated land, assistance to victims and international cooperation.
The organization said civilian protection must remain at the center of global efforts to restrict weapons that pose long-term dangers to communities.
Human Rights Watch’s latest warning comes amid continuing armed conflicts in which explosive weapons are causing significant harm to civilians and civilian infrastructure.
The group is calling on states to reinforce the international norm against cluster munitions and encourage additional countries to join the treaty.
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Disclaimer:
This report is based on Human Rights Watch’s September 8 statement and publicly available information. HRNW presents the organization’s assessment for public-interest journalism and humanitarian awareness.
