News Article on International Movement Against Cluster Bombs

As you know, Amnesty is currently supporting S 594, the Custer Munitions Civilian Protection Act, in the Senate. This bill would place restrictions on the use of U.S. funds for the purpose of using or exporting these weapons in order to significantly reduce the likelihood of civilian casualties.

While this legislation would not ban cluster munitions, it is important to note that there is a growing international consensus against these weapons. I therefore encourage you to read the Associated Press's coverage of efforts to establish a treaty outlawing cluster bombs (“46 Nations Push for Cluster Bomb Treaty”). This article also provides good background information on the dangers posed by these weapons.

Please remember to call the offices of Senators Lautenberg and Menendez and urge them to cosponsor S 954!