In an effort to increase the momentum for universalization of the Convention on Cluster Munitions (CCM), Spain and Malawi, in their capacity as Coordinators on Universalization, convened the Informal Working Group (IWG) on 19 June 2023 with the support of the Implementation Support Unit (ISU). The meeting served as a platform to facilitate discussions and exchange ideas, best practices and lessons learnt on promoting adherence to the Convention.
CCM ISU Director, Ms. Pamela Moraga, provided an update on the current status of universalization. Speaking on behalf of the Coordinators, Mr. Juan Manglano of Spain reported on recent activities undertaken to promote adherence to the Convention. Participants also benefited from insights by Mr. Daniel Feakes, ISU Chief of the Biological Weapons Convention (BWC), who shared experiences on advancing universalization in the BWC context.
The meeting brought together a broad range of participants, including representatives from 18 CCM States Parties, the United Nations Office for Disarmament Affairs (UNODA), the European Union, the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC), the Cluster Munition Coalition (CMC), Cluster Munition Monitor, Mines Action Canada, and Norwegian People’s Aid (NPA).
Established in 2020, the IWG is open to all interested States Parties, relevant institutions, and partners. Its aim is to foster cooperation and strengthen efforts to achieve universalization and reinforce the impact of the Convention.