Activists working towards the prohibition of landmines have called on governments and rebel groups around the world to cease the use of this deadly tool. Members of the International Campaign to Ban Landmines noted in their current meeting in Geneva that rebels often tend to use this weapon because landmines are small, inexpensive, and portable. Noel Scott, a spokesperson for the organization, stated that although three-quarters of the world's countries have signed and ratified the landmine ban treaty, the treaty does not monitor rebel groups as they are not recognized as governments. He added that nevertheless, a legal mechanism has been created for rebel groups to sign under the title of 'commitment document' regarding the prohibition of such weapons.
Landmines Are the Weapon of Choice for Rebels Worldwide - 2002-09-18
Activists are urging governments and rebel groups to stop using landmines, which are favored by rebels due to their low cost and portability. The International Campaign to Ban Landmines highlights the lack of oversight on rebel groups under the existing treaty, although a new legal framework for commitment has been proposed.
👥 Key Players
📰 What Happened
Activists are calling for a global cessation of landmine use, particularly by rebel groups, due to their deadly nature and ease of use. The International Campaign to Ban Landmines emphasizes the lack of oversight on these groups under current treaties.
- Three-quarters of the world's countries have signed the landmine ban treaty.
- Rebel groups are not monitored under the treaty as they are not recognized as governments.
💡 Why It Matters
📚 Background
Landmines are explosive devices planted in the ground that can remain dangerous long after conflicts end, causing civilian casualties. The International Campaign to Ban Landmines was instrumental in creating the Mine Ban Treaty in 1997.
🏷️ Entities Mentioned
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