Participation of the Serbian Mine Action Centre in the Intersessional Meetings of the Ottawa Convention in Geneva
A delegation of the Serbian Mine Action Centre participated in the Intersessional Meetings of the States Parties to the Convention on the Prohibition of the Use, Stockpiling, Production and Transfer of Anti-Personnel Mines and on Their Destruction (Ottawa Convention), held in Geneva from 17 to 20 June 2025.
These meetings serve as a key mechanism for monitoring and evaluating progress in the implementation of the Convention, with a particular focus on mine clearance, stockpile destruction, and victim assistance.
During the official session, representatives of the Centre presented an overview of current humanitarian demining activities in the Republic of Serbia, highlighting ongoing efforts, challenges, and requirements related to the fulfilment of obligations under Article 5 of the Ottawa Convention.
Special attention was given to southern Serbia, specifically the municipality of Bujanovac, where a non-technical survey project is currently underway. An updated report on the project was presented, alongside examples of concrete activities being undertaken by the Republic of Serbia in accordance with its international commitments.
In addition to its official participation, the Centre’s delegation actively engaged in side events, including an expert meeting on mine victim assistance and a working breakfast with partner organizations, national mine action centres, and international donors.
On this occasion, the Centre also underlined that, apart from areas contaminated with anti-personnel mines, the Republic of Serbia continues to face a significant number of locations contaminated with cluster munitions, aerial bombs, and other unexploded ordnance, the clearance of which requires substantial financial resources.
Participation in these meetings represents a meaningful step toward strengthening international cooperation and securing continued support for humanitarian demining efforts, which remain essential for ensuring a safe and secure environment for all citizens of the Republic of Serbia.
