Printed from: www.icbl.org/Universal/MBT/Making-the-MBT-Universal
“Universalization” means getting as many states as possible on board the Mine Ban Treaty. The ICBL works relentlessly to promote universalization, in partnership with states and key partners such as the International Committee of the Red Cross and United Nations agencies. In order to achieve a truly universal ban on landmines, non-state armed groups must also be encouraged to ban these weapons.
ICBL member meeting members of Parliament and government representatives in Bahrain. November 2007. Photo: ICBL
The ICBL believes that the Mine Ban Treaty has been successful in reducing the threat posed by antipersonnel mines. However, this is still a "success in progress" and for it to be complete it is imperative that each and every country in the world becomes a Party to the treaty. Eighty percent of the world's countries have now joined the Mine Ban Treaty.
Universalization of the Mine Ban Treaty is key to ensure that the goal of "ending the suffering caused by landmines" can be achieved and that the emerging international norm of a total ban on antipersonnel landmines continues to take hold. The ICBL continues to urge all states that still remain outside the treaty to join it at the earliest opportunity.
The ICBL and its members constantly engage with States not party, including signatories, to encourage them to accede to or ratify the Mine Ban Treaty. Universalization activities include: writing lobbying letters to decision-makers; visiting countries to meet with government and parliament representatives; holding meetings with diplomatic representatives in Geneva and capitals; encouraging States Parties to raise the issue in their dealings with states not party; and raising awareness in the media and general public of concerned countries.