Message from President Designated, Ambassador Susan Eckey, to all conference participants

As President-Designate of the Second Review Conference of the Mine Ban Convention I am proud and honoured to be working closely with the Colombian government to ensure a successful Conference. 

Together we aim for a strong political outcome through participation at the highest level possible.  Together with civil society and field-based international organisations we will ensure that our work is firmly based on the situation on the ground.  Together with all States Parties we will do our utmost to ensure that the Second Review Conference will make a difference.

The Second Review Conference provides us with an excellent opportunity to refocus the world’s attention on the humanitarian essence of the Convention, that is, that the Convention is about the wellbeing and rights of people and our commitment to survivors.  Even though much progress has been made since the Convention entered into force ten years ago, many challenges remain and strengthened efforts are needed.  Building on past achievements and lessons learned, the outcome of the Conference will guide and inspire us in the coming years. 

The Mine Ban Convention is a dynamic and effective instrument of international humanitarian law. It has also inspired and will continue to inspire further strengthening of international humanitarian law and human security.

To achieve success in our endeavours, we need true dedication, creativity, inspiration and hard work.  The active involvement of all States Parties, of international organisations and civil society in partnership is vital.

I therefore appeal to all to engage, to participate, to raise your voices – to make a difference and to achieve a world where everyone can live a life in dignity free from the suffering that anti-personnel mines cause.

Ambassador Susan Eckey
President-Designate