A step forward in the fight against the global arms race has occurred, with the Oslo treaty banning cluster munitions or submunitions entering into force on Sunday 1st August.
Cluster munitions contain hundreds of bomblets, can be dropped over a large surface area, and not all explode on impact. This poses a major threat to civilians long after conflicts have ended. Today, the global stockpile of these bombs has risen to more than one billion according to the Coalition Against Weapons Munitions. The Oslo treaty has so far been signed by 107 countries but only 37, including France, have ratified.
What does this entry into force mean and what will be the outcome? Stijn Van Bever, working on the issue of disarmament at Pax Christi International, speaks to Vatican Radio on this issue.
The interview is in French but you can access it by clicking HERE. You will need Real Media Player to access the recording.
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