Since 2003, Handicap International’s Ban Cluster Bombs campaign has received huge support from the Soroptimist International movement.
The efforts of individual Soroptimists, clubs and regions have made a massive difference raising the profile of the issue of cluster munitions in the UK. Together, we have put on a wide range of events over the years, including building ‘Pyramids of Shoes’, taking part in the ‘Forgotten 10 Challenge’ (December 1st -10th), putting on exhibitions and film screenings and collecting thousands of signatures for our global petition.
Cluster bomb ban becomes international law!
On 1st August 2010, the Convention on Cluster munitions entered into force, marking a major step forward in international humanitarian law. The UK is a full member of the Convention, thanks to the hard work of campaigners around the UK, many of whom are Soroptimists. Handicap International would like to offer our sincere thanks to all our Soroptimist friends who helped make this campaign a success over the years.
But of course, it doesn’t finish there! A lot of work is still needed to ensure that more countries sign the Convention and that the promises made are kept. The trauma suffered by the existing and future victims of those terrible weapons will continue until cluster munitions are eradicated completely.
Handicap International will carry on raising awareness in the UK of the situation faced by cluster munition victims. We will also be focusing on the issue of funding for victim assistance and bomb clearance operations in areas affected by cluster munitions, to make sure that countries live up to their committments under the Convention.
How your club can get involved - The Forgotten 10 Challenge
This year, Handicap International UK and Soroptimist clubs around the UK are partnering once again so that the victims of landmines and cluster bombs are not forgotten and receive assistance to rebuild their lives. Across the country, our supporters will be taking action in their communities, putting on a wide range of events and activities raising awareness and funds in support of our work. Find out how to get involved here.
For more information or support with events, please email tom.shelton@hi-uk.org, or call us on 0870 774 3737.
