The UN Human Rights Council unanimously adopted Algeria’s draft resolution on “the impact of anti-personnel mines on the enjoyment of all human rights” on Friday, coinciding with the International Day for Mine Awareness and Assistance in Mine Action.
This adoption marks a significant step in recognizing the humanitarian, social, and economic consequences of anti-personnel mines, reaffirming the international community’s renewed commitment to victims and affected countries.
Proposed by Algeria during its 2022–2025 council term, the resolution was co-sponsored by a core regional group including South Africa, Croatia, Mozambique, Peru, the UK, and Vanuatu. Algeria’s Permanent Representative, Ambassador Rachid Beladhan, highlighted the constructive, inclusive, and transparent approach adopted throughout consultations.
The resolution underscores the devastating effects of anti-personnel mines on rights to life, security, mobility, education, and development. It calls for enhanced demining efforts, increased victim support, and a stronger global commitment to a total ban on such mines, in line with treaties like the Ottawa Convention.
It urges states to fulfill obligations under international law, human rights law, and humanitarian law, encouraging coordinated, multisectoral efforts to address survivors’ needs—especially children—and their communities, while promoting their rights.
The resolution also emphasizes mine risk education, urging its integration into educational and awareness programs, and calls for close collaboration among states, international organizations, and civil society to share information and best practices on demining and victim assistance.
Additionally, it mandates the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights to prepare a comprehensive report, in consultation with relevant stakeholders, analyzing the mines’ impact on human rights enjoyment.
