Cluster munitions have unique characteristics that make them a grave danger to civilian men, women and children. At the time they are used during conflict, cluster munitions can disperse explosive submunitions (bomblets) over very wide areas, potentially causing very high civilian casualties when they are used in populated areas. In addition, large numbers of submunitions fail to explode as intended, leaving a long-term legacy of explosive contamination. Many thousands of civilian men, women and children have been tragically killed and injured by coming into contact with unexploded submunitions.

On 30 May 2008, 107 States adopted the Convention on Cluster Munitions at a Diplomatic Conference held in Dublin, Ireland. The ICRC warmly welcomes the adoption of this historic treaty, which prohibits the use, production, stockpiling and transfer of cluster munitions.

On 16 February 2010 Burkina Faso became the 30th State to deposit its instrument of ratification for the Convention. This date triggers the countdown to the Convention's entry into force and the timetable for implementation of its obligations. On 1 August 2010, the Convention will become binding for those States that have already ratified it. It will become binding for other States as and when they ratify it.

By adopting and signing the Convention, States have taken a major step towards ending the death, injury and suffering caused by these weapons. States must continue to adhere to the Convention, and all governments, armed forces and armed groups – in particular those who possess and stockpile cluster munitions – must fully implement its provisions. Only then can the international community claim success against the dangers posed by these weapons.