Liz Lynne, Liberal Democrat MEP for the West Midlands, spoke out in the European Parliament, in support of continued funding for "Humanitarian Disarmament". Working with British charity MAG (Mines Advisory Group) to raise awareness of the need for continuing funds for these activities in the European Community's new development strategies, she called upon the Parliament's President and her fellow MEPs to ensure that each budget for post-conflict countries includes funds for humanitarian disarmament. She said: "If funding for humanitarian aid is not included in the Commission's funding programmes, then after December this year, funds for the life-saving mine clearances could cease. This would have a serious impact upon a variety of development programmes in particular countries."

Humanitarian disarmament is a response that integrates landmine detection, clearance and destruction, Mine Risk Education, minefield survey, assessment and marking, and assistance to survivors with a broader remit involving the removal of small arms/light weapons and explosive remnants of war, and how this all links with development needs.

At the end of 2007, the range of activities in the humanitarian disarmament sector will no longer be funded under the EC thematic anti-personnel landmine budget line. The line is to be mainstreamed in order to streamline development assistance. Ms Lynne's speech made clear that the EC and European Parliament members appreciate the value of humanitarian disarmament. However, funds for these activities can and must be made available under the planned funding mechanisms.

For more than ten years, the EC has built on its commitment to the Millennium Development Goals and fostered international security through its support for the implementation of the Ottawa Treaty that banned the production, use and stockpiling of anti-personnel landmines. The EC has provided support to landmine clearance, bomb disposal and stockpile destruction, as well as for the provision of Mine Risk Education and victim assistance. These activities have helped to remove the blockages to development caused by landmines and unexploded munitions. Its financial and political support has been integral to success globally in reducing the number of deaths and injuries from landmines and explosive remnants of war.

At a time when the global trend has been towards a reduction in aid levels, the European commitment remains constant. The EC and its member states will give almost €40 billion in overseas assistance over the next six years. As development agencies are striving to achieve the Millennium Development Goals, the EC is supporting them across a range of sectors to reach the overarching aim of reducing poverty by half. And while terrorism and insurgency threaten international security, the EC is taking the lead towards diplomatic solutions. However, in many countries worldwide, the legacy of conflict is restricting the emergency, development and peace building interventions of the EC - due to the presence of landmines, other explosive remnants of war and small arms/light weapons.

Only through the continued funding of humanitarian disarmament can conflict-affected communities be given the opportunity to rebuild their lives in safety.

ENDS

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