#StopBombingCivilians

Protect Civilians from Use of Explosive Weapons in Populated Areas

Urge President Ramaphosa of South Africa to sign the declaration to prevent civilian harm.

As a global leader for the protection of civilians, South Africa can help prevent carnage from being repeated in ongoing and future armed conflicts.

As we have seen from Gaza to Ethiopia, Sudan and Ukraine, the use of explosive weapons in populated areas is having a devastating impact on civilians. In 2023, these weapons killed and injured civilians in at least 75 countries and territories, according to the International Network on Explosive Weapons (INEW).

The use of aerial bombs, artillery projectiles, mortars, rockets, and missiles in populated areas has turned neighborhoods to rubble, destroying homes, schools, hospitals, and cultural landmarks, and cutting off access to food, water, electricity, and other essential services.

We are calling on all countries to endorse a milestone international declaration aimed at curbing harm from the bombing and shelling of villages, towns, and cities.

What does the declaration ask countries to commit to?

Restrict or refrain from the use of explosive weapons in towns, cities, and other populated areas.

Assist victims.

Facilitate humanitarian access.

Collect and share data about the effects of explosive weapons in populated areas.

As of today, more than 85 countries have signed the declaration. But at this critical time, we can’t stop until all countries have endorsed and implemented the declaration.

South Africa has played a leading role on the African continent and the world at large in the protection of civilians in armed conflict. From its contribution to United Nations and African Union peacekeeping operations, such as in the Democratic Republic of Congo, northern Mozambique and elsewhere, to the most recent developments at the International Court of Justice, where South Africa brought a case against Israel related to Israel’s obligations under the Convention on the Prevention and Punishment of the Crime of Genocide, South Africa has long placed the protection of civilians at the heart of its foreign policy.

By endorsing the declaration, South Africa can deepen its commitment to the protection of civilians and send a strong reminder to other nations of the declaration’s significance and necessity.

Ask South Africa to endorse the declaration and help prevent suffering in ongoing and future conflicts. By taking this action, you will be supporting a petition to be delivered to President Cyril Ramaphosa and Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Ronald Lamola.