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Response to the draft elements for a political declaration on the use of explosive weapons in populated areas

WILPF published comments and suggestions in response to draft elements for a political declaration on the use of explosive weapons in populated areas, circulated by the government of Ireland in January 2020.


WILPF welcomes the draft elements for a political declaration on the use of explosive weapons in populated areas. Given the unconscionable levels of death and destruction currently caused by the bombing of towns, cities, and villages, it is imperative that the declaration be a useful tool for strengthening civilian protection and preventing human suffering.

The main challenge with the current text is that it suggests that the continued use of explosive weapons in populated areas (EWIPA) will be the norm rather than the exception. This is unacceptable for a tool that is meant to improve compliance with international humanitarian law (IHL), protect civilians, and prevent humanitarian harm. This political declaration must promote a presumption against the use of explosive weapons with wide area effects in populated areas. Any policies or practices it suggests must work to end such use.

With this in mind, this document contains specific textual suggestions related to the draft elements.

Written by Ray Acheson • Published in February 2020 by the Women's International League for Peace and Freedom

In January 2020, WILPF published recommendations for a political declaration on EWIPA.