On March sixth, Lithuania officially withdrew from the Convention on Cluster Munitions, becoming the first country to exit the treaty since its adoption in two thousand eight.

The convention prohibits the use, production, transfer, and stockpiling of cluster munitions due to their indiscriminate effects and long-term risks to civilians.

Currently, one hundred twelve nations are parties to the treaty.

Reasons for Withdrawal

Lithuanian officials cite security concerns related to Russia’s military actions in Ukraine, where cluster munitions have been extensively used.

Deputy Defence Minister Karolis Aleksa stated that leaving the treaty allows Lithuania to enhance its defense capabilities and improve deterrence measures against large-area threats.

Response from Humanitarian Organizations

The decision has drawn strong criticism from human rights groups and disarmament advocates.

The International Committee of the Red Cross expressed concern, warning that the move undermines civilian protections.

Amnesty International described the withdrawal as disastrous, while Human Rights Watch called it alarming, noting that it weakens efforts to eliminate the use of cluster munitions worldwide.

Potential Precedent and Further Considerations

Lithuania’s parliament approved the withdrawal in July of last year, with the decision taking effect six months after official notification to the United Nations.

The move has raised concerns about setting a precedent for other countries to reconsider their commitments to arms control agreements.

Lithuania is also evaluating whether to exit the Anti-Personnel Landmines Convention, though government leaders have delayed a final decision while assessing the stance of regional allies.