The Regional Conference on addressing the humanitarian impact of Improvised Anti-Personnel Mines within the framework of the Mine Ban Convention has kicked off in Accra, Ghana.
Hosted by the National Commission on Small Arms and Light Weapons in collaboration with the Implementation Support Unit (ISU) of the Anti-Personnel Mine Ban Convention with support from the European Union (EU), this 3-day conference aims to deepen understanding of the regional impact of improvised anti-personnel mines and explore efforts to mitigate their humanitarian consequences, as seen through the lens of States Parties.
According to the 2023 Landmine Monitor Report, 4,710 casualties of mines and explosive remnants of war (ERWs) were recorded in 2022, with civilians comprising 85% of the casualties. Children accounted for half of these civilian casualties.
This conference provides a platform for technical discussions on best practices and lessons learned in comprehensively addressing the humanitarian impact of improvised anti-personnel mines within the Convention’s framework.
The Mine Ban Convention, in force since March 1, 1999, serves as the cornerstone of international efforts to end the suffering and casualties caused by anti-personnel mines. With 164 States Parties, including the Republic of Ghana, which ratified the Convention on June 30, 2000, progress has been made in fulfilling obligations under Article 5, with 30 States Parties, including Ghana, having declared completion of their mine clearance obligations.
Despite this progress, the threat posed by improvised anti-personnel mines remains significant, affecting peace, security, and development. As discussions unfold in Accra, delegates are poised to drive forward initiatives that will contribute to a safer and more secure future.
