Fourth Meeting of States Parties to the Convention on Cluster Munitions, LUSAKA, ZAMBIA

From September 9-13^th, 2013 stakeholders from States Parties, signatory states, observer states, UN agencies, international organizations and civil society will gather in Lusaka, Zambia, for the Fourth Meeting of States Parties (4MSP) to the Convention on Cluster Munitions (CCM). The Convention on Cluster Munitions (CCM) is an international treaty that addresses the humanitarian consequences and unacceptable harm to civilians caused by cluster munitions, through a categorical prohibition and a framework for action. The Convention prohibits all use, production, transfer and stockpiling of cluster munitions. In addition, it establishes a framework for cooperation and assistance to ensure adequate care and rehabilitation to survivors and their communities, clearance of contaminated areas, risk reduction education and destruction of stockpiles. Cluster munitions are unacceptable for two reasons. Firstly, they have wide area effects and are unable to distinguish between civilians and combatants. Secondly, the use of cluster munitions leave behind large numbers of dangerous unexploded ordnance. Such remnants kill and injure civilians, obstruct economic and social development, and have other severe consequences that persist for years and decades after use. Adopted on 30 May 2008 in Dublin, Ireland and signed on 3-4 December 2008 in Oslo, Norway, the Convention on Cluster Munitions entered into force on 01 August 2010. Currently the Convention has 112 signatories, out of which 83 are also State parties.