Reversed restrictions on the use of anti-personnel landmines.
The United Nations estimates 15,000 to 20,000 people are killed (and more maimed) every year by anti-personnel landmines – 80% of whom are civilians, with children being the most common victims.
In a move towards compliance with an international treaty banning the use of anti-personnel landmines, President Obama agreed in 2014 that the United States would abide by the treaty everywhere (with an exception the Korean Peninsula).
However, claiming such humanitarian efforts would hinder his ability to “defend against any and all threats”, President Trump reversed the Obama-era restrictions and allowing for their deployment in “exceptional circumstances”.
Status
Jan. 1st, 2020 RESTRICTIONS LOOSENED
Anti-personnel mine use lifted for use in “exceptional circumstances”.
Notables
- Despite 160 signatories to the international Mine Ban Treaty, the U.S. remains uncommitted.
Trump Admin Loosens Obama-Era Restrictions on Land Mine Use | NPR (1.31.20)
- The U.S. State Department has provided over $3.4 billion to more than 100 countries since 1993 to aid in the removal of landmines.
Trump Admin Expected to Loosen Military’s Limits on Land Mines | New York Times (1.30.20)
