At the U.S. Fund for UNICEF, we believe that students can play a vital role in helping the world’s children survive and thrive. That’s why we are so impressed with a group in West Virginia called Proud Students Against Landmines and Cluster Bombs (PSALM).
In April, we shared a couple of Fieldnotes entries about the devastation of landmines and cluster munitions, and UNICEF’s work to help keep children safe from landmines (remember the “magic cricket“?)
In mine-affected communities, children’s everyday activities can have a sudden end. UNICEF recognizes that the only way to put an end to these indiscriminate weapons is to ban them outright. In that spirit, the U.S. Fund for UNICEF is a long-time member of the U.S. Coalition to Ban Landmines and Cluster Munitions (www.uscbl.org), advocating for the United States to ratify the 1997 Mine Ban Treaty and the 2008 Cluster Munitions Convention.
On May 18, the movement toward U.S. ratification of the Mine Ban Treaty took an big step forward. A letter written by mine ban champion Sen. Patrick Leahy (D-VT) went to President Obama, asking him to accede to the Mine Ban Treaty – signed by 68 Senators including ten Republicans and two Independents, signifying a key two-thirds Senate majority in favor of ratification. Sixty-eight is a special number because it represents the Senate two-thirds majority needed for ratification if the Administration sends the treaty to the Senate for consent.
Yesterday, April 4, was International Mine Awareness Day. Programs and events were held around the world to educate people about the dangerous legacy of landmines, which affect more than 84 countries.
Children at play are particularly vulnerable to mines and cluster munitions since they come in interesting shapes and colors that attract children’s curiosity.
This week’s Monday photo shows a young survivor from Angola.
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| © Sean Sutton/Mines Advisory Group |
| “A landmine victim in Angola |
This is a serious problem with devastating consequences. Visit www.mineaction.org to educate yourself and help raise awareness.
If you live near New York City, today you can join U.N. Under-Secretary-General Alain Le Roy for the opening of an art exhibition to mark the International Day for Mine Awareness and Assistance in Mine Action.
Monday, April 5 2010, 6:00 – 8:00 p.m; North East Gallery, United Nations Visitors Lobby
This is a free event that’s open to the public.
You can also help advance the call to ban cluster munitions. Help support our vision of a world free from the threat of landmines and explosive remnants of war.
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It’s pretty amazing how little Iraq is in the news these days. After all, there are still approximately 130,000 American troops in the country, (though between 35,000 and 50,000 troops are expected to pull out of Iraq by August). And there are still bombings every week that kill innocent Iraqis, including children.
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Jul30
New TV series staring Ewan McGregor raises awareness for UNICEF
A new television series, “Long Way Down,” featuring actors Ewan McGregor and Charley Boorman, makes its US television premiere on Fox Reality Channel this Saturday, August 2 at 9 pm (ET/PT). Check local listings for details. UNICEF is the official charity for “Long Way Down.” During their journey from Scotland to South Africa, Ewan and Charley stopped off to visit UNICEF projects to raise awareness and funds for children. Apr17
Capitol Corner: April 19, Global Day of Action to Ban Cluster Bombs
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