Statement: Landmine Conference November 25 – 29, 2024

Below is a statement issued by Anne Héry, HI Advocacy Director, on the Landmine Conference that took place on November 25-29, 2024, in Siam Reap, Cambodia 

The Siem Reap Angkor Summit on a Mine-Free World took place amid a major crisis for the Mine Ban Treaty after the US announced that it would supply anti-personnel mines to Ukraine. We were relieved to see that a large number of states expressed their concern about the US decision during the conference, with some calling on Ukraine not to accept and use these anti-personnel mines. It is good to see that the conference's final documents reaffirm the treaty's solid humanitarian norms.

However, we are very concerned that many States Parties are still silent on this announced transfer, which could lead to a violation of the Convention by one State Party: Ukraine. We are also extremely alarmed by the dangerous precedent set and the discussions about the Mine Ban Treaty that have begun in Eastern European states. We call on all States Parties to make a clear commitment to this life-saving treaty, which has significantly reduced the threat to civilians from anti-personnel mines. Strict adherence to the obligations of the Mine Ban Treaty and international humanitarian law is essential in protecting civilians in all conflict zones, including Ukraine. 

As a founding member and leading International Campaign to Ban Landmines (ICBL) campaigning organization, HI strongly supported the campaign's powerful and internationally recognized actions this week. I was particularly impressed by the strength of survivors from different regions and backgrounds who made a powerful statement that this Convention can and must significantly change the lives of every person affected and prevent further suffering from anti-personnel mines.  

Another crucial outcome of this Summit relates to victim assistance, which was discussed extensively at the Siem Reap Summit. Based on our long experience working with communities in mine-affected countries, one of HI's key concerns has been ensuring that States Parties maintain and strengthen commitments to victim assistance, including in open conflict contexts. 

HI Advocacy Director Anne Héry