Convention on the prohibition of the use, stockpiling, production and transfer of anti- personnel mines and on their destruction
The Convention on the Prohibition of the Use, Stockpiling, Production, and Transfer of Anti-Personnel Mines and on their Destruction, commonly known as the Ottawa Treaty or the Mine Ban Treaty, is an international treaty that aims to eliminate the use, production, and trade of anti-personnel landmines.
The treaty was adopted on September 18, 1997, and entered into force on March 1, 1999. It has been signed by 164 countries, also known as States Parties, and has had a significant impact on reducing the use and casualties caused by anti-personnel mines.
Key provisions of the Mine Ban Treaty include:
- Prohibition: The treaty bans the use, stockpiling, production, and transfer of anti-personnel mines. It also prohibits assisting, encouraging, or inducing others to engage in these activities.
- Destruction: States Parties are required to destroy their stockpiled anti-personnel mines within specified timeframes. They are also encouraged to destroy mines in mined areas under their jurisdiction or control.
- Assistance: The treaty recognizes the importance of providing assistance to mine-affected countries, including mine clearance, victim assistance, and mine risk education. States Parties are encouraged to cooperate and provide such assistance to the fullest extent possible.
- Cooperation and Assistance: States Parties are expected to cooperate with one another in the implementation of the treaty, including exchanging information, providing technical assistance, and facilitating mine clearance efforts.
- Victim Assistance: The treaty highlights the importance of providing comprehensive assistance to mine victims, including medical care, rehabilitation, psychological support, and social and economic inclusion.
- Compliance and Reporting: States Parties are required to provide annual reports on their implementation of the treaty, including measures taken to fulfill their obligations.
The Mine Ban Treaty has contributed to a significant decline in the use and production of anti-personnel mines. It has also led to increased clearance efforts, stockpile destruction, and support for mine victims. However, some countries, including major powers like the United States, Russia, and China, have not joined the treaty. Nonetheless, the convention remains an essential international instrument in addressing the humanitarian impact of anti-personnel mines.
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