US backs global landmine ban
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.The United States yesterday threw its support behind a Canadian- backed process aimed at a global ban on landmines after a United Nations conference in Geneva failed to reach a breakthrough. "The United States will participate in the Ottawa process negotiations on a treaty banning anti-personnel landmines," said a White House statement issued on the island of Martha's Vineyard, where President Bill Clinton was on vacation.
The Canadian initiative promises a treaty by the end of the year banning the use, export, production and stockpiling of anti-personnel landmines. The problem is acute: US officials estimate 9,600 people are killed by land mines world-wide every year and another 14,000 are wounded, double the number of injuries logged in 1980.
Reuters - Edgartown
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments