The Convention on Cluster Munitions, a global ban on the use, production, transfer and stockpiling of cluster bombs entered into force today. 107 States have signed and 38 have ratified the Convention. The Netherlands and Australia are yet to ratify, though have signed it. But there are several notable absences in the signatories.

The United States, among others, claim that the bombs are ‘legitimate weapons’. It may be the case but cluster bombs are for an ‘old style’ of combat. Wars of the 21st Century are largely asymmetrical and not just conventional. They may start out conventionally but end asymmetrically. Such a weapon is a menace and redundant in modern warfare. The Convention is a welcome addition to the body of law within international humanitarian law.

Image Credit: BBC News.