What is a cluster bomb?

Cluster munitions are mini-bombs grouped together in tens or hundreds in containers.
Dropped randomly over extremely wide areas covering up to several hundred hectares, they are likely to be found in civilian zones. 5 – 30% do not explode on impact and therefore become landmines in all but name. The slightest contact is enough for them to maim, seriously burn or kill.

Several millions of cluster munitions were dropped during the recent conflicts in Iraq, Afghanistan and Kosovo, resulting in thousands of victims. Unexploded cluster munitions lying on the ground, in trees or on rooftops, represent a permanent threat to civilians. Amongst the victims of landmines and unexploded ordnance, including cluster munitions, 71% are civilians!