Statement by Representative of Slovenia to the UN Security Council Ambassador Samuel Žbogar at the Arria-formula meeting titled “Safeguarding Lives, Sustaining Peace: Enhancing Mine Action for Stabilization, Protection, Recovery, and Inclusion”

Thank you very much Mr. Chairman,

I thank Japan for organizing this Arria on important topic of mine action. Slovenia is a proud supporter of mine action worldwide and we truly appreciate an opportunity to speak on this subject today. I would also like to thank the two briefers for their valuable insights.

Mr. Chairman and colleagues,

Our collective dream of a mine-free world by 2025 is lost. Casualties from landmines, explosive remnants of war, and improvised explosive devices (IEDs) are regrettably rising again. This is happening despite the dedicated efforts of the United Nations, Member States, and non-governmental organizations.

Slovenia strongly condemns the use of antipersonnel mines and improvised explosive devices (IEDs), given their indiscriminate effects. We urge all parties involved in armed conflicts to adhere strictly to the international humanitarian law.

Furthermore, we call on State Parties to the Ottawa Convention, the Convention on Cluster Munitions and the Amended Protocol II and the Protocol V of the CCW to fulfill their obligations.

Let me highlight three key areas for advancing mine action:

First, integration into peace operations.

We welcome the inclusion of mine action within the mandates of UN peace operations and commend the coordination efforts of the UN, particularly through UNMAS. Mine clearance is fundamental for ensuring the safety of civilians and peacekeepers. It should be integrated in all stages of peace operations. Furthermore, it can be an important part of the disarmament, demobilization and reintegration (DDR) programs, thus contributing to a secure environment that supports reconstruction, recovery and economic development in post-conflict settings. We saw that very clearly during our visit to Colombia in February with the DDR programs.

While advancements in technology are enhancing mine detection and clearance, peace operations continue to face logistical and financial challenges, including limited training and equipment. Addressing these gaps requires better resource allocation, and stronger coordination. Building partnerships with local communities and organizations is essential for accelerating clearance, restoring mobility, and enabling economic recovery. We commend initiatives that engage less traditional partners, such as WFP and UNHCR, in mine action efforts.

Second, victims’ assistance.

This is a crucial pillar of post-conflict recovery. Slovenia actively contributes to this effort through ITF – Enhancing Human Security Fund, a Slovenia-based non-profit organization that has made significant strides in humanitarian demining, victim rehabilitation, and mine risk education globally. ITF has successfully cleared over 160 million square meters of contaminated land, assisted more than 20,000 mine survivors, trained nearly 1,500 mine action experts, and educated over 600,000 individuals on mine risk awareness.

Demining is a critical lynchpin in recovering food and water security in conflict-affected areas, reviving livelihood opportunities and allowing for a safe return of refugees or internally displaced persons to their homes. The continuing need for the expansion of the ITF’s activities is a tragic reminder of a growing number and scope of conflicts, and the ongoing violations of international law and international humanitarian law.

Third, gender inclusion.

While mines may be indiscriminate, specific threats and impacts vary according to gender, age and other aspects of diversity. Women and girls in general face limited access, for example, to mine-risk education, medical care, mental health and psychosocial support services, as well as rehabilitation and socio-economic inclusion services. Gender-transformative approaches are therefore key. In this regard, we welcome the new Siem Reap-Angkor Action Plan, which emphasizes the Women, Peace and Security agenda and incorporates gender and diversity as crosscutting themes.

Antipersonnel mines continue to harm long after conflicts end. Taking my own country Slovenia: although not impacted by antipersonnel mines, we are still clearing explosive remnants from both world wars, with 3,450 unexploded ordnance items destroyed in 2023. This underscores the enduring threat of such weapons and the importance of education, awareness to mitigate risks and robust victim assistance systems.

In conclusion, Slovenia reaffirms its commitment to the Ottawa Convention and calls on all States Parties to meet their obligations. We call upon non-signatories to join the Convention without a delay. This is a path to universalize our shared aspiration for a mine-free world.

Thank you.

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