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THE PROBLEM WITH LANDMINES. THE PROBLEM WITH LANDMINES… IS THEIR HUMANITARIAN IMPACT. At least 4,000 new casualties in 2009 3,000 km 2 of contaminated land, in over 70 countries and areas Over 350 types of landmines have been found since World War I
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THE PROBLEM WITH LANDMINES… IS THEIR HUMANITARIAN IMPACT • At least 4,000 new casualties in 2009 • 3,000 km2 of contaminated land, in over 70 countries and areas • Over 350 types of landmines have been found since World War I • The most affected countries are among the world’s poorest - including Afghanistan, Cambodia, Colombia, Lao PDR, Myanmar (Burma), Pakistan, Somalia.
THE SOLUTION In 1997, as a result of unprecedented cooperation between civil society and governments, The Ottawa Convention was adopted as a solution to the global scourge of landmines. • Alllandmines must be found and destroyed • All landmines survivors must be fully cared for • All countries must never use or produce landmines again
Treaty Obligations • Clear landmines and teach people about the dangers ©ICRC/V. Ivleva-Yorke/ao-e-00249h Mine Risk Education ©Sean Sutton, Reuters Mine Clearance ©Gaëtan deBeaupuis Stockpile Destruction
Treaty Obligations • Provide for the needs and rights of survivors everywhere ©ICBL-Georgian Committee Institute For Rehabilitation, Slovenia 2005 Emergency assistance New limbs and rehabilitation © Amaya Valcárcel Social reintegration
SUCESSES SO FAR • 156 countries have joined the Ottawa Convention (80% of the world) • Dramatic reduction in the # of casualties • Only a few countries continue to lay new mines • Vast tracts of land have been cleared and are available for development • Destruction of remaining stockpiles But we still need to finish the job…
Canada is a leader in the international movement to ban landmines. And so too are the Canadian people! Ordinary people can have an extraordinary impact
Become part of the global network of activists and campaigners making a mine-free world a reality - and not just a dream ©ICRC
TAKE ACTION NOW! www.minesactioncanada.org