Holy See deplores use of cluster munitions

The Holy See expressed disapproval of the ongoing production, stockpiling, transfer, and use of cluster munitions during a United Nations conference on September 14. Archbishop Ettore Balestrero, the apostolic nuncio and Permanent Observer to the United Nations and other international organizations in Geneva, stated that these weapons cause long term damage to victims and the land.

Archbishop Balestrero said these munitions harm individuals, communities, and the broader human family. He urged all nations to follow and implement the 2008 Convention on Cluster Munitions. While 112 states are parties to the treaty, China, Russia, and the United States have not adhered to it.