ISSN: 2222-6990
Open access
This study aims to assess the economic, legal, and developmental impacts of the use of cluster munitions in Arab countries through a comprehensive analysis that integrates both theoretical and applied dimensions of this phenomenon. The study is grounded in the central premise that the effects of cluster munitions are not confined to periods of armed conflict, but rather extend into long-term burdens that undermine economic stability, generate complex legal challenges, and hinder sustainable development trajectories. The research adopts a descriptive-analytical methodology based on a review of recent Arabic literature, analysis of international legal frameworks, and examination of Arab experiences in dealing with explosive remnants of war. Several analytical dimensions are employed, including environmental impact, food security, investment climate, reconstruction costs, and human capital, alongside an evaluation of the roles of governance, technology, and international organizations in addressing this issue. The findings reveal that cluster munitions impose a multifaceted economic burden by disrupting productive activities, reducing the usability of agricultural land, increasing reconstruction costs, and diminishing investment attractiveness due to heightened risk levels. Furthermore, the study identifies a significant gap in the international legal framework, attributed to weak enforcement mechanisms and uneven state commitments, which limits the effectiveness of legal prohibitions on such weapons.
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Copyright: © 2026 The Author(s)
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