CHA advocates signing Landmine ban treaty

[TamilNet, Sunday, 05 December 2004, 00:16 GMT]
"Sri Lanka government is not a signatory to the Ottawa convention on banning of land mines, but the Landmine Ban Advocacy Forum (LABF) sees the government participation at a recent review meeting as a step toward signing and complying with provisions of the conventions," said The Consortium of Humanitarian Agencies (CHA) in a media release issued Friday.

"North-East children are at particular risk of injury and death from landmines, another explosive remnants of war, because the small size, unfamiliar shape and colours can make them look like toys. Land mines, meant to be used against soldiers in war, are devastating the lives if children at peace, release further said.

Refugees and displaced children returning home after war are in particular danger of land mines because they are most likely to be unaware of the dangers of playing in or traversing hazardous areas.

Land mines are deadly attraction for children who's innate curiousity and need for play often lure them directly into harms way. The signing of the documents by the government and the LTTE would demonstrate their commitment and lead to a reduction in civilian casualties. It will help return to normal life in the war tone areas and ensure that no more landmines are planted within Sri Lanka, the media release further said.