A resolution titled “Impact of anti-personnel mines on the full enjoyment of human rights: Strengthening victim assistance,” co-sponsored and actively promoted by Azerbaijan, was adopted within the framework of the 63rd session of the UN Human Rights Council in Geneva, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs told APA.
A total of 70 states joined the resolution as co-sponsors, and the document was adopted without a vote.
Within the framework of the session, Azerbaijan organized a public dialogue to keep this important joint initiative on the agenda and promote it, and also acted as a co-organizer of a side event dedicated to the topic.
As one of the countries most severely contaminated by mines in the world, Azerbaijan suffers from the acute problem posed by anti-personnel mines. Anti-personnel mines and unexploded ordnance have a long-term and severe impact on the full enjoyment of human rights, causing serious consequences for the lives of victims and their family members. In this regard, we welcome the particular attention paid in the resolution to the issue of victim assistance.
Mine action is one of the fundamental elements of sustainable peace and plays an important role in the post-conflict reconstruction process. In addition to creating conditions for the safe and dignified return of former internally displaced persons to their homes, mine clearance makes an important contribution to the reconstruction of conflict-affected territories and communities, as well as to ensuring socio-economic development.
We appreciate the significant attention paid in the resolution to the interconnection between mine action, peace and the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals. Mine clearance is also of great importance in ensuring more effective adaptation to climate-related risks. In this regard, we consider it important that the resolution contribute to shaping and deepening understanding of the link between mine action and adaptation to climate risks in the context of human rights.
The scale of casualties caused by mines once again demonstrates the importance of mobilizing stronger international support, partnerships and sustainable financing, particularly for mine action and victim assistance. In this regard, we welcome the call by the UN Human Rights Council on member states to increase financing for mine clearance and victim assistance, including through the use of alternative financing sources and public-private partnerships.
Azerbaijan once again emphasizes the importance of strengthening international cooperation, solidarity and sustained support in combating the mine threat and highly values the contribution of mine action to the protection of human rights and the promotion of sustainable peace and development.
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