Cluster bombs have been widely used during conflicts in countries such as Kosovo, Vietnam, Afghanistan and Iraq. The results are devastating…

Handicap International UK is urging the public to show solidarity with victims of cluster bombs and support the campaign to Ban Cluster Bombs. Handicap International UK will create a giant Pyramid of Shoes in Covent Garden plaza on Friday 11th November to raise awareness of this issue. Since becoming the co-recipient of the 1997 Nobel Peace Prize for the International Campaign to Ban Landmines, Handicap International (HI) has also been at the forefront of international efforts to ban cluster bombs.

Catherine Deneuve and Juliette Binoche are among the celebrities supporting the campaign.
Catherine Deneuve said: “During and after conflicts, cluster bombs kill and maim thousands of civilians with impunity. Say no to cluster bombs with Handicap International.”

Cluster bombs are not a new scourge. HI has been working with affected communities in post conflict zones since the mid 1980s, but early versions of the weapon were also dropped in the UK during the Second World War. On November 11th at Covent Garden, we will also be remembering the people of Grimsby who were affected by these bombs, through an exhibition and testimonies from survivors.

The Pyramid of Shoes and related activities will run from 9am to 5pm. Members of the public will be asked to bring a pair of shoes to donate and will have the opportunity to sign a petition.

• The Pyramid will consist of donated shoes, each symbolising a life or limb lost through accidental bomb blasts.
• There will be a mine clearance area in which experts will demonstrate the extraordinary skills and commitment required in their daily work dealing with unexploded cluster bombs and mines in countries all over the world.
• Volunteers will be shining shoes for passers by, who will be asked to make a small donation to this cause.
• Children’s activities and educational games will take place in St Paul’s Churchyard.

Cluster bombs are unpredictable weapons. They have a wide ‘footprint’ when dropped or launched. The smaller ‘bomblets’ have a high failure rate and pose a threat to civilians long after a conflict is over. Cluster bombs are manufactured, stockpiled and used by the UK.

Cluster bombs have been used in at least 20 countries during conflicts in the last 40 years. Containing up to several hundred can-sized bomblets, a single bomb can spread bomblets over an area at least the size of several football pitches. Just one bomblet dropped on Covent Garden could injure anyone within the area coloured orange.