Antipersonnel Landmines and Cluster Munitions: an analysis under international law

Abstract

The purpose of my thesis is to study the issue of antipersonnel landmines and cluster bombs since they are a a global and living issue. First, I examined the issue giving the necessary definitions of these weapons,second, I analyzed the texts of the Conventions and finally I studied the role of the International Community. First, the main characteristic of the explosive devices is that they are not only being used during many conflicts , but also they kill and injure even after the end of wars with negative social and economic repercussions. Second, I focused on the Ottawa and Oslo Processes, which lead up to a ban on landmines and cluster munitions. More importantly, I analyzed both the Convention paying attention on the aspect of compliance. Next, I examined the action of some international Actors, such as the role of the United Nations, the European Union and of two crucial International Campaigns, the ICBL and the CMC. In conclusion, I explained the recent progresses and future perspectives relating to this subject.