The UN Human Rights Council has unanimously adopted a resolution on "The impact of anti-personnel mines on the full enjoyment of all human rights: enhancing victim assistance," proposed by Algeria, Peru, South Africa, Vanuatu, the United Kingdom, Mozambique, and Croatia. This resolution marks a significant milestone in the international effort to address the humanitarian consequences of anti-personnel mines. Algeria's initiative has garnered widespread support, reflecting the international community's trust in its human rights approach.
The resolution builds upon a previous decision, 58/22, initiated by Algeria during the 58th session, and advances its commitment to enhancing victim assistance through a human rights-based approach. The international community and civil society organizations have welcomed Algeria's role in this matter, acknowledging its historical experience with inherited mines from the colonial era and its achievements in demining efforts through national capabilities.
The resolution, which has been endorsed by 70 countries, is one of the most supported decisions at the council, demonstrating broad international consensus on the humanitarian and rights-based aspects of the issue. The resolution emphasizes the rights and needs of victims and their families, stressing the importance of comprehensive support, including social and economic reintegration.
The decision expresses concern about the severe impact of mines on the right to life, freedom of movement, health, education, work, and adequate food, as well as development. It encourages states to fulfill their obligations under international human rights law and humanitarian law, and to consider joining the Convention on the Prohibition of Anti-Personnel Mines.
The resolution also calls for enhanced data collection systems, integration of psychological and social support into victim assistance programs, and ensuring access for persons with disabilities to health institutions and public facilities. Furthermore, it advocates for international cooperation to accelerate demining efforts and provide comprehensive assistance to victims.
In follow-up to the resolution's implementation, it provides for a discussion during the 66th session of the council, focusing on the importance of enhancing victim assistance. The resolution also invites special procedure mandate holders to give due attention to this issue within their mandates.
The adoption of this resolution reaffirms Algeria's leading role in advocating for humanitarian issues related to human rights within the UN and demonstrates its ongoing commitment to multilateralism and international cooperation, in the lead-up to the 30th anniversary of the Convention on the Prohibition of Anti-Personnel Mines in 2027.
Key points
- The resolution emphasizes the rights and needs of victims of anti-personnel mines and their families.
- Algeria's initiative has received widespread international support, reflecting trust in its human rights approach.
- The decision calls for enhanced international cooperation to accelerate demining efforts and provide comprehensive assistance to victims.
