Secretary General Hails Anti-Landmine Convention as Celebrated, Historic Treaty on Twentieth Anniversary, Calls for Greater Efforts to Eliminate Their Use

Following is the text of UN Secretary‑General António Guterres’ video message on the twentieth anniversary of the Anti‑Personnel Mine Ban Convention (the Ottawa Convention), in Vienna today:

Hello everyone, and congratulations on the twentieth anniversary of the Anti‑Personnel Mine Ban Convention.

This celebrated and historic treaty has had a positive impact on the lives of many.  It has saved lives and returned hope and human dignity.  Tens of millions of stockpiled anti‑personnel mines have been destroyed; vast areas contaminated by mines have been cleared and returned to use; and communities have learned how to keep themselves safe.  I commend you on this remarkable progress.

Looking forward, we must redouble our efforts to eradicate these indiscriminate weapons and stigmatize their use.  Please stay faithful to your ideals and continue your important work.