As member of the International Campaign to Ban Landmines, JRS expresses deep concern that several countries—Latvia, Estonia, Lithuania, Poland, and Finland—are considering withdrawing from the Convention to Ban Landmines (Ottawa Treaty).

In collaboration with JRS teams in Cambodia and the International Campaign to Ban Landmines, we are therefore asking to Government leaders to reject landmines and to stay committed to the Convention.

While we fully aknowledge each country’s legitimate security concerns, reintroducing anti-personnel mines would be a flawled, ineffective, and dangerous response. We call on Governments to consult with experts, humanitarian organisations, and civil society to understand better the impact mines have had on communities worldwide.

Adopted in 1997, the Convention, represents an achievement of civil society and governments working together to make the world a safe and just place for all its people. This joint effort has saved countless lives and strenghtened global norms against indiscriminate weapons.

Rejecting anti-personnel mines is not just a legal obligation – it is a moral imperative.

Download the letters sent to Government leaders by JRS International and our teams in Cambodia.