The Fourth Review Conference of the States Parties to the Anti-Personnel Mine Ban Convention
The Fourth Review Conference of the States Parties to the Anti-Personnel Mine Ban Convention will take place in Oslo, Norway on 25-29 November 2019.
On 30 November 2018, Norway took over the presidency of the Mine Ban Treaty from Afghanistan. Afghanistan’s presidency of the mine ban treaty last year reflected a firm commitment to ensure clearance of anti-personnel landmines in Afghanistan and around the world.
Afghanistan acceded to the Convention on 11 September 2002. The Government of Afghanistan developed a detailed plan of action for achieving a mine-free Afghanistan by 2023. As one of the world’s most mine affected countries, Afghanistan is taking concerted action at the national level to become mine free, under a comprehensive national action plan supported by the international community.
In the year 2018 Directorate of Mine Action Coordination (DMAC) Afghanistan National Disaster Management Authority (ANDMA) absorbed all Afghan technical mine action personnel who were previously employed by UNMAS, as a measure to enhance national capacity in conducting mine clearance activities.
The 4th review will be another indication as part of the international efforts to achieve a mine-free world for the benefit of all of humanity.
On the margin of the conference, a side event will take place on Thursday 28 November 2019, showcasing the government of Afghanistan’s efforts in mine clearance and the way in which Afghan women have taken a more active role in this endeavor. In this regard, a presentation will be given on the role of female deminers in helping make Bamyan, the first province to become mine-free. Please refer to https://www.apminebanconvention.org/states-parties-to-the-convention/afghanistan/ for more information.