CURRENT AFFAIRS
CURRENT AFFAIRS
Description
Finland’s Parliament has recently voted in favor of withdrawing from the Ottawa Convention formally known as the Anti-Personnel Mine Ban Convention. This move marks a significant policy shift for the Nordic country, driven primarily by growing military threats from neighboring Russia. The decision comes at a time of heightened regional tensions and reflects Finland’s effort to bolster its national defense capabilities in response to evolving geopolitical challenges.
About Ottawa Convention
The Ottawa Convention, also referred to as the Mine Ban Treaty, is an international agreement aimed at eradicating the use and impact of anti-personnel landmines globally. The treaty plays a central role in humanitarian disarmament and is regarded as a milestone in international arms control efforts.
Adoption and Enforcement: The treaty was adopted on September 18, 1997, in Oslo, Norway, and officially came into force on March 1, 1999.
Core Prohibitions: Signatory countries agree to:
Never use, develop, produce, acquire, stockpile, retain, or transfer anti-personnel landmines.
Destroy existing stockpiles within four years of ratification.
Clear mined areas within their territory within ten years.
Educate at-risk populations about landmine dangers.
Support mine victims, including survivors and affected communities.
Offer international cooperation and assistance for clearance, victim rehabilitation, and technical aid.
Scope And Participation
As of now, the Ottawa Convention has been ratified by 165 countries, representing a broad global consensus against the use of anti-personnel mines. However, several major military powers including the United States, Russia, China, and India have not joined the treaty. These countries have cited strategic and security reasons for their reluctance.
Retreat Of Finland
Finland’s decision to exit the Ottawa Convention is closely tied to increasing security threats, particularly following Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine and the growing militarization in the Baltic region. Finnish lawmakers argue that retaining the option to deploy anti-personnel mines could enhance their defensive posture, especially in remote and vulnerable areas along the eastern border.
Strategic Defense: Supporters of the withdrawal say that anti-personnel mines could serve as a deterrent or a tactical tool in the event of armed aggression.
NATO Membership: Since joining NATO in 2023, Finland has reevaluated its defense policies in line with the alliance’s security demands and regional responsibilities.
Implications And International Reaction
Finland’s withdrawal may spark broader international debate about the balance between national security and humanitarian obligations. Critics argue that the use of landmines often results in long-term civilian casualties, as many devices remain active long after conflicts end. Organizations like the International Campaign to Ban Landmines (ICBL) have expressed concern over Finland’s decision, fearing it could weaken global norms against these weapons.
India’s Position On Treaty
India is not a signatory to the Ottawa Convention. The Indian government maintains that anti-personnel mines are a crucial component of its defense strategy, especially along disputed borders with Pakistan and China. India has, however, stated its commitment to minimizing civilian harm and adheres to certain safety protocols during mine deployment.
The Future Of Ottawa Convention
While the Ottawa Convention has significantly reduced the global use of landmines, Finland’s exit underscores the challenges of maintaining disarmament norms during periods of international conflict. The treaty will continue to play a vital role in shaping global humanitarian policy, but its effectiveness will largely depend on the political will of member states and the pressures of real-world security environments.
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