Wed, 03.12.08
convention on cluster munitions
The Convention on Cluster Munitions was opened for signature today. In use since World War II, cluster bombs contain a number of smaller bombs that, once spread by the wind, cover a much larger area. Cluster bombs endanger civilians much in the way that land mines do. Therefore, the early halt on their usage has both a pacifist but also a clear protection of integrity aspect to it.
The US, Russia and China, all of which are stockpiling cluster munitions were not among the first 107 countries reported to sign the Convention.
In a surprise move, the Afghan government decided to sign despite alleged pressure to the contrary from the US government.