Landmines and public health

Ten years ago a landmark treaty banning one of the cheapest and most widespread weapons was signed by 122 nations. Health professionals played a major role in galvanizing colleagues and public opinion to oppose the landmine: a weapon of mass destruction in slow motion. This presentation will provide an overview of the treaty and the mine ban movement's effectiveness to date in minimizing production and trade, planting new mines, as well as clearing land, treating and rehabilitating survivors. It will also assess the challenges and obstacles that remain in ridding the world of this egregious weapon that has caused such human suffering and economic devastation.