Yorwah noted that the commitment by government to stop the use of explosive weapons with wide area effects in populated areas should be central to a declaration which will provide the best practical mechanism for reducing civilian harm. Civilian harm from the use of explosive weapons in populated areas has been highlighted as a top humanitarian priority following the increase in conflicts in urban settings resulting in high levels of civilian casualties in recent years. Data shows that when explosive weapons are used in populated areas, about 91 percent of those reportedly killed and injured are civilians. In 2016, over 32,000 civilians were killed or injured by explosive weapons in several countries, with Syria, Iraq, Yemen, Afghanistan and Turkey topping the list of civilian deaths and injuries. According to him, Data shows that when explosive weapons are used in populated areas, approximately 91% of those reported killed and injured are civilians.

Source: GNN Liberia April 03, 2018 16:07 UTC