Our open letter - signatures

Our Open Letter to World Leaders

— Dear World Leaders

We call on you to sign the international political agreement on explosive weapons in populated areas.

When explosive weapons are used in populated areas like towns and cities, civilians suffer the most. Nine in ten people killed or injured are civilians. Even when the fighting has ended, unexploded bombs remain — causing death, injury and suffering for decades to come.

People who survive bombing and shelling in their towns and cities experience long-term psychological trauma. Children are often mentally scarred by the horrors of war.

Schools, houses, playgrounds, and hospitals are destroyed when explosive weapons are used in areas where people live. Children are killed or left without parents. Families are torn apart, and people are forced to flee their homes.

Services that are critical for survival and recovery – such as water, sanitation, transportation and healthcare – are destroyed, depriving people of basic necessities and causing a pattern of long-term suffering.

This agreement has the potential to significantly reduce deaths and the suffering of people impacted by war. It will commit states to limit the use of explosive weapons in populated areas and take steps to address the harm caused to people. It could save lives, and we’re calling on you to sign it.

Sign this agreement and take action to address the devastating physical and psychological harm to people affected by conflict.

Signed by: