Facts:
- There are currently 15,000 deaths/injuries from landmines; 11,000 less than 1997.
- There are over 100 million landmines buried on the face of the Earth waiting to be detonated.
- Landmines can cost around $3- $30, and it takes at most $1000 to deactivate one.
- In 1997, there was an International treaty in Canada, which calls for the banning of the usage, production, and stockpiling of landmines. Currently, 142 countries out of 194 have signed this treaty. The U.S. is not on this list.
- 83% of Landmine deaths/injuries have been from civilians. 1/3 of the civilians were children.
- The U.S. is currently using landmines in Iraq.
Solutions:
I think all countries should sign this treaty. Landmines can only cause harm especially for children who don't know any better. Every country should donate some money to deactivate mine fields and teach villagers how to spot and safely deativate a landmine. Some people think landmines protect other countries from being invaded, but it really just kills their own people. If countries really needed protection from another country, they should attempt to negotiate peace because having peace and good relations is better than having a great army.