WVCBL/PSALM joins the Cluster Munition Coalition and the International Campaign to Ban Landmines
in marking five years since the Convention on Cluster Munitions (CCM) was adopted at the Dublin Diplomatic Conference on Cluster Munitions. The 107 countries that adopted the Convention set aside long-held arguments on the military utility of cluster munitions and recognized that humanitarian concerns and the protection of civilians must come first.
The Cluster Munition Coalition (CMC) played a crucial role at every step of the process, helping to shape the outcome. In 2007, WVCBL/PSALM expanded our mission to include advocacy toward a prohibition on the use, production, and transfer of cluster munitions that cause unacceptable harm to civilians. Also recognized on this day were graduating PSALM students for their outstanding dedication to PSALM service and awareness projects with the 2013 “Seek Peace and Pursue It” awards.
The 2008 Convention on Cluster Munitions bans the use, production, stockpiling and transfer of cluster munitions and requires countries to clear affected areas within 10 years and to destroy stockpiles of the weapon within eight years. The Convention includes groundbreaking provisions requiring assistance to survivors and affected communities. Signed in Oslo in December 2008, the Convention entered into force as binding international law on 1 August 2010.
Five years on from the Dublin Conference, amazing progress has been made in cementing the global norm supporting the ban and the Convention is going strong with 112 States that have joined, of which 83 are States Parties. Significant progress has also been made in the destruction of stockpiles, clearance of affected areas and support for cluster munition victims. Globally, the number of new cluster munition casualties has reduced annually. This coming December marks the 5th anniversary of the signing of the Convention.
Work to be done…
Work remains to be done and more countries, including the United States must accede to the Convention to prevent this indiscriminate weapon from causing further harm. On this significant anniversary, WVCBL says, “it’s time to make it happen”…the U.S. should join the Convention on Cluster Munitions.
MESSAGE TO CAMPAIGNERS WORLDWIDE…
Dear Campaigners,
On May 30th, we marked the 5th anniversary of the adoption of the Convention on Cluster Munitions at the Dublin Diplomatic Conference on Cluster Munitions by remembering and recognizing all of YOU who have served as role models and mentors for us over the years. From the inspirational stories of the Ban Advocates, so very willing to share your painful past to ensure a more peaceful future, to the many courageous campaigners from all corners of the world. YOU provided an education that no school or college could provide…lessons in life, love and hope. Please know that your work and passion as campaigners transcends miles, inspires us and lives on in the hearts and minds of our students and all they meet! We are honored to call all of you “family”.
WVCBL/PSALM Coordinator, Nora Sheets
