Author(s):
Kirsten Young <kirsten@landminesurvivors.org> .
Zagreb, Croatia,
Friday 02 December 2005
Who Presided Over the Meeting: Nicaragua and Norway
MAIN POINTS OF DISCUSSION
Victim Assistance, with a particular thematic focus on the economic inclusion of survivors.
ICBL PRESENTATION
The ICBL statement was delivered by Margaret Arach Orech and focused on the responses to the
Margaret Arach Orech, speaking on behalf of the ICBL about appropriate attention to survivor needs.
Victim Assistance (VA) Questionnaire for the 24 States Parties identified with the most number of mine survivors and being referred to as the VA24.
The ICBL acknowledged the tremendous value of VA Questionnaire, not only to the 24 States parties, but also to all mine affected countries in developing a sustainable and fundable strategy to victim assistance. With respect to resources, the ICBL urged State parties to secure more funds for victim assistance and that mine action funding for victim assistance be earmarked. We also encouraged mine-affected states to attach activity budgets to their national plans of action and to report on the resources used. In fact, only with this type of transparency will donors and other partners see value in supporting victim assistance projects and programs.
CONCERNS FOR THE ICBL
The responses to the VA Questionnaire were of varying quality. In too many cases, the objectives remain vague, and in developing the questionnaire it was clear there was little interaction with national health services and other sectors such as education, labour, human rights, development or finance. In addition, there is a need further clarification and prioritisation to serve as a basis for further action.
Some mine-affected States Parties implied that they are unable to do anything on survivor assistance in the absence of “international cooperation”, or rather donor funds.
HIGHLIGHTS FOR ICBL
The VA24 have taken the process of the VA Questionnaire seriously.
Screens at the front of the plenary hall showing a photo of a group of landmine survivors with the words "Provide real change for survivors now!" written above, help to focus delegates on the issue during an LSN presentation.
There was a recognition that landmine survivors should be included in larger disability and development/poverty alleviation strategies. In addition, more governments discussed the rights of survivors and other people with disabilities and the ongoing negotiation process of the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities.
The ICBL, represented by Landmine Survivors Network, was invited to present in the official plenary session on the economic inclusion of survivors.
QUOTE FOR THE DAY
Mexico, “[victim assistance] is not a matter of charity, but it is an engagement that we have assumed under Article 6.3.”
ICBL Statements
ICBL intervention on Victim Assistance, 30 November 2005
