12th Meeting of States Parties to the Convention on Cluster Munitions: A Call for Renewed Commitment

The 12th Meeting of States Parties (12MSP) to the Convention on Cluster Munitions is set to take place from September 10-12, 2024, in Geneva, Switzerland. This crucial gathering presents a significant opportunity for States Parties to reaffirm their dedication to the Convention and showcase its real-world impact.

During the three-day event, participants will engage in several important activities. States Parties will provide updates on recent advancements in implementing the convention, while also addressing ongoing obstacles to full implementation. Signatory states and non-members will report on their efforts to ratify and join the convention, contributing to the goal of universal adoption.

A key focus of the meeting will be tackling urgent matters facing the convention. These include the ongoing use and transfers of cluster munitions, which continue to pose a threat to civilian populations in various parts of the world. Additionally, the recent decision by Lithuania to withdraw from the convention will be a topic of significant discussion, as participants examine the potential ramifications of this move and explore ways to address its implications.

The Cluster Munition Coalition (CMC) will play an active role in the discussions, advocating for enhanced efforts towards full implementation of the convention, increased universalization of the agreement, and strengthened global respect for the convention's norms. We believe that our participation underscores the importance of civil society in maintaining momentum towards a world free of cluster munitions.

In light of the challenges facing the convention, the CMC is issuing a strong call to action for all states. We urge governments to unequivocally condemn any use and transfers of cluster munitions, regardless of the circumstances or parties involved, and to demand an immediate cessation of all use and transfers of these weapons. The coalition is also calling for States Parties to express deep concern over Lithuania's withdrawal decision and to actively explore ways to address its implications.

During this week, the CMC will hold two distinct side events. The first is a briefing where members of the Cluster Munition Monitor editorial team will present recent developments in cluster munition ban policy, use, production, trade, and stockpiling; and in assessing and addressing the impact of cluster munition remnants contamination and casualties through clearance, risk education, and victim assistance. This event will be on Tuesday, 10 September 2024, from 13:00 to 14:30 in Room XIX, Palais des Nations.

On Thursday at 10 AM, the CMC will hold a panel discussion entitled "Cluster Munitions: Decades of failure, decades of civilian casualties." The panel will revisit the unacceptable humanitarian consequences and technical failures of cluster munitions that led to their prohibition in 2008. This side event will take place on Thursday 12 September from 10:00 to 12:00 on the side of the 12th MSP of the Convention on Cluster Munitions, Plenary Room XIX.

Furthermore, the CMC emphasizes the need for signatories and non-member countries to take prompt action to ratify or accede to the convention without delay. This push for universalization is crucial in strengthening the global norm against cluster munitions and ensuring that these indiscriminate weapons are eliminated worldwide.

For those interested in following the proceedings, organizational details and relevant documents can be found on the CCM ISU website. The CMC will also be providing regular updates and announcements through their social media channels and website. Statements made by the CMC during the 12MSP will be made available online once delivered, allowing for broader engagement with the issues discussed.