The Third Review Conference of the Convention on Cluster Munitions (CCM) concluded today in Vientiane, Lao PDR, having been hosted and chaired by the Lao People’s Democratic Republic from 14 to 18 September.
The Conference brought together 128 delegations from States that have ratified the Convention, signatory States, and numerous active civil society organisations, including the Cluster Munition Coalition (CMC), Humanity & Inclusion (HI), Mines Advisory Group (MAG), and Norwegian People’s Aid (NPA).
The Conference represented a key opportunity for participating delegations and civil society organisations to take stock of progress in the implementation of the Convention and to define priorities for the next five-year period.
Of particular importance was the adoption of the Vientiane Capital Action Plan 2027–2031, which will guide the efforts of States Parties during the Convention’s next implementation cycle, setting out priorities and commitments to strengthen efforts towards a world free from the threat of cluster munitions. The Conference was held under the theme “Accelerating progress towards a world free from the threat of cluster munitions”.
With the conclusion of the Third Review Conference, a new phase for the Convention now begins. The Presidency of the CCM will be assumed by Ambassador Alexander Kmentt, who will lead the work of the Convention until the 14th Meeting of States Parties, scheduled to take place from 14 to 17 September 2027.
Italy, which has long been committed to strengthening multilateral disarmament instruments and to the implementation of the Convention on Cluster Munitions, will continue to support the objectives of the CCM, contributing to international efforts towards its universalisation and the full implementation of the commitments undertaken by States Parties.
