The Oslo Process to ban cluster bombs has been yet another example of an emerging and increasingly influential model of multilateral work. The achievements of the ban on landmines, the International Criminal Court and the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities were all important steps forward in their respective fields.
The processes to achieve success in each of these historic agreements all shared some common features: a clear and common goal shared across a range of actors; a partnership between like-minded governments willing to lead the way; a strong, active and coordinated civil society campaign; and a partnership between like-minded governments, civil society and international organisations.
The process to ban cluster munitions has been the latest achievement in this broader international effort to develop new international norms and standards to protect and promote human rights, human security and civilian protection.