The Convention on Cluster Munitions (CCM) was adopted at a conference in Dublin, Ireland, during a period marked by increasing international concerns over the humanitarian impact of cluster munitions. These weapons release multiple submunitions over a wide area, often failing to explode as intended and leaving behind dangerous remnants that threaten civilians long after hostilities have ceased. The need to address these issues became increasingly pressing as conflicts involving their use, such as in Lebanon and Kosovo, brought attention to their indiscriminate effects on civilian populations.

Negotiations involved representatives from over 100 countries, alongside various non-governmental organizations advocating for a ban. The discussions highlighted a collective will to enhance global humanitarian standards and to reduce the suffering caused by armed conflict. The centerpiece of the convention is a comprehensive ban on the use, production, and transfer of cluster munitions, along with provisions for clearing affected areas and assisting victims.

The adoption of the CCM marked a significant milestone in international disarmament efforts. It demonstrated a growing recognition of the need to address armed violence's long-term humanitarian consequences and emphasized the importance of protecting civilians in war-torn regions. Countries that ratified the treaty pledged to work towards eliminating cluster munitions, thus enhancing global efforts towards a more peaceful world.