By Bunmi Yekini
The International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) has expressed deep regret over Lithuania’s unprecedented decision to withdraw from the Convention on Cluster Munitions, a global humanitarian treaty banning the use, production, and stockpiling of cluster bombs.
The withdrawal, which takes effect today, marks the first time a state has pulled out of a humanitarian disarmament agreement, raising alarm within the international community.
“This decision weakens vital protections for civilians and risks exacerbating the threats posed by these weapons, which cause unacceptable harm,” the ICRC said in a statement.
Cluster munitions are known for scattering explosive submunitions over wide areas, many of which fail to detonate on impact, posing long-term dangers to civilians. These unexploded remnants often resemble toys, making children particularly vulnerable.
“Cluster munitions have wide-area effects. Their use in urban areas raises particular humanitarian concerns. And long after their use, they continue to inflict suffering, especially on children, and prevent communities from rebuilding,” said Cordula Droege, the ICRC’s Chief Legal Officer.
Since its adoption in 2008, the Convention on Cluster Munitions has been signed by 124 states, with 123 remaining bound by its terms. The treaty has led to the destruction of over a million stockpiled cluster munitions and the clearance of vast contaminated lands.
The ICRC noted that Lithuania’s withdrawal comes despite a collective appeal from treaty member states in September 2024, urging the country to reconsider its move.
“Withdrawal from any humanitarian treaty erodes life-saving humanitarian protections in war and tears at the fabric of international humanitarian law,” Droege warned. “The ICRC urges all states to reinforce, not erode, the frameworks that protect civilians in conflict.”
The humanitarian organization emphasized that while national security concerns evolve, the devastating impact of cluster munitions remains consistent — with long-term consequences for communities, especially displaced families trying to return and rebuild.
Recent data from the Cluster Munition Monitor shows that nearly half of all casualties from cluster munition remnants in 2023 were children, highlighting the indiscriminate nature of these weapons.
The ICRC continues to advocate for universal adherence to the convention and called on all nations to uphold their commitments to protect civilians from the legacy of war.