Description

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Context

Several NATO countries bordering Russia including Poland, Finland and the Baltic states like Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania have recently announced their intention to withdraw from the Ottawa Treaty of 1997 banning the use of anti personnel landmines.

This decision comes amidst growing security threats following Russia's aggression in Ukraine and signals a shift in global disarmament norms.

What is the Ottawa Treaty?

Full name: Convention on the Prohibition of the Use, Stockpiling, Production and Transfer of Anti-Personnel Mines and on their Destruction.

Adopted in 1997.

Entered into force in 1999.

164 states are parties as of 2024.

Key provisions:

Prohibit use, production, transfer and stockpiling of anti-personnel landmines.

Destroy existing stockpiles within 4 years.

Clear mined areas and assist victims.

Significance of Withdrawal

These nations can now resume production, stockpiling and use of anti-personnel landmines.

Reversal of decades of humanitarian and disarmament efforts.

Undermines global consensus on banning indiscriminate weapons.

Reasons for Withdrawal

Factor	Explanation
Security Threats from Russia	Perceived vulnerability post-Ukraine invasion; fear of Russian expansionism.
Strategic Parity	Russia, US, China, India and Israel are non-signatories; withdrawal levels the playing field.
Military Utility	APLs seen as cost-effective tools for border defence delaying enemy advancement.
Funding Cuts	US slashed support for global demining programs; weakened treaty implementation.
Changing Geo-Politics	Increased militarization and declining emphasis on post-Cold War disarmament ideals.

Humanitarian Concerns

Over 80% of mine victims are civilians.

Mines cause long-term harm, even after wars end — hindering agriculture, displacement, and infrastructure rebuilding.

Ukraine has become the most mined country globally (UN Report, Oct 2024). 1,286 civilian victims reported as of Aug 2024.

Impact on Global Disarmament

Area	Potential Consequence
Global Norms	Weakens international disarmament architecture.
Trust in Treaties	Raises doubts about the credibility and durability of arms control agreements.
Humanitarian Work	Demining efforts stalled due to reduced funding and increased use.
Spread of Cluster Munitions	Lithuania and others considering withdrawal from 2008 Convention on Cluster Munitions as well.

India’s Position

India is not a signatory to the Ottawa Treaty.

Justification:

Security concerns in border areas especially with Pakistan.

Believes in responsible use of landmines in accordance with Amended Protocol II of the CCW (Convention on Certain Conventional Weapons).

Way Forward

Reaffirm international commitment to humanitarian disarmament.

Strengthen diplomatic and military deterrence without resorting to indiscriminate weapons.

Enhance victim assistance and global demining funding.

Encourage universalization and compliance mechanisms under existing treaties.

About Landmines

Aspect	Details
Definition	Explosive devices placed under or on the ground, designed to destroy or disable enemy targets especially personnel or vehicles.
Types	1. Anti-personnel mines – Target individuals (e.g., toe-popper). 2. Anti-tank mines – Target vehicles. 3. Improvised mines – Locally made.
Purpose	Used in warfare to deny area access, protect strategic zones, slow enemy movement or defend borders.
Activation Mechanism	Triggered by pressure, tripwires or remote signals.
Longevity	Remain active for years or decades after conflicts causing civilian harm long after wars end.

Global Scenario

Aspect	Details
Major Affected Countries	Afghanistan, Angola, Cambodia, Colombia, Iraq, Myanmar, Sudan, Syria
Landmine Monitor	Annual report published by the International Campaign to Ban Landmines (ICBL)
Casualties	Mostly civilians; significant number are women and children
Clearance Challenges	Difficult terrain, lack of records, cost-intensive technology

Landmines in India

Aspect	Details
Usage	Mainly along India-Pakistan and India-China borders especially in Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh
Producers	Ordnance Factories under Ministry of Defence
Challenges	Accidental injuries to civilians and soldiers during peacetime
De-mining Efforts	Carried out by Indian Army in conflict-prone and border areas

Ban & Conventions

Treaty/Agreement	Details
Ottawa Treaty (1997)	Formally called the Mine Ban Treaty, prohibits use, stockpiling, production & transfer of anti-personnel landmines
India's Position	Not a signatory to the Ottawa Treaty
Reason for India's Non-signing	Security concerns on borders; demands credible alternatives before committing
Other Non-signatories	USA, Russia, China, Pakistan

Landmine Clearance Techniques

Method	Description
Manual Clearance	Using metal detectors and trained personnel (slow but precise)
Mechanical Clearance	Using mine plows, rollers, and flails mounted on vehicles
Animal Detection	Specially trained dogs or rats (e.g., HeroRATs in Africa)
Advanced Technologies	Drones, ground-penetrating radar, and AI-based mapping

Sources:

INDIANEXPRESS

PRACTICE QUESTION

Q. Several NATO countries are withdrawing from the Ottawa Treaty banning anti-personnel landmines. Examine the reasons behind this move and discuss its implications for international humanitarian law and global disarmament efforts. 250 Words.