International ban takes effect

An international treaty banning the use, stockpiling and production of anti-personnel mines, signed by over 130 countries in Ottawa in December 1997, came into effect yesterday after being ratified by another 50 nations. In a press release by the International Campaign to Ban Landmines (ICBL), Jody Williams, ICBL ambassador said: “Today, this treaty enters into force more quickly than any other major treaty in history, demonstrating the world’s commitment to eradicate this insidious weapon now.” But Williams sounded a note of caution: “While the treaty and the ban movement already had a huge impact in terms of saving future lives and limbs, we will not have real success until there is effective and rapid implementation on the ground, and more of the recalcitrant governments join in.”