The use of cluster munitions in conflict zones has resulted in devastating consequences for civilian populations. While Syria has long been synonymous with the deadly impact of these weapons, the magnitude of casualties in Ukraine has now surpassed it.
The Human Cost in Ukraine:
According to a recent report released by the Cluster Munition Coalition, Ukraine witnessed over 300 fatalities and 600 injuries from cluster munitions in 2022, making it the deadliest year in recorded history. The continuous use of these bombs by Russia, along with their limited deployment by Ukrainian forces, contributed to this tragic toll. The most severe attack occurred at the Kramatorsk railway station, where 53 people lost their lives, and 135 were injured.
The Lingering Threat in Syria and the Middle East:
Despite a decline in active fighting, the remnants of cluster munitions continue to claim lives and inflict injuries in war-torn countries such as Syria. In 2022 alone, 15 people were killed and 75 were wounded by cluster munitions or their remnants. Similarly, Iraq reported 15 fatalities and 25 injuries, while Yemen experienced five deaths and 90 injuries from these explosive remnants.
Children as the Primary Victims:
Regrettably, children constitute the majority of cluster munition casualties worldwide. Due to a striking resemblance to harmless objects, such as metal balls, children often mistake these dangerous bomblets for toys, unknowingly triggering explosions. The devastating consequences of this are exemplified by the heart-wrenching experiences of 12-year-old Rawaa al-Hassan and her 10-year-old sister, Doaa, who suffered life-altering injuries when they stumbled upon an unexploded bomblet in northern Syria.
Long-Term Consequences and Challenges:
One of the grave concerns associated with cluster munitions is the long-term threat they pose to civilians even after conflicts have ceased. The presence of these explosive remnants, scattered across landscapes for years or even decades, has continually endangered lives. The challenges of addressing this issue are compounded by factors such as lack of funding, logistical complexities, and competing actors controlling different parts of affected areas, as highlighted in Syria.
The Global Effort for a Ban on Cluster Munitions:
The United Nations Convention on Cluster Munitions currently bans these weapons, with 124 countries as signatories. However, the refusal of major powers such as the United States, Russia, Ukraine, and Syria to abide by this agreement remains a significant obstacle. It is crucial to advocate for a unified commitment to eliminate cluster munitions and safeguard civilian lives.
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