The Return of Landmines to Europe: A Dangerous Shift in Security Policy
The recent decision by Poland to withdraw from the Ottawa Convention, officially enacted on February 20, 2026, marks a disturbing turning point in European security. This move, followed by similar announcements from Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania and Finland, signals a willingness to re-embrace a weapon long considered unacceptable due to its indiscriminate nature and devastating impact on civilians. Poland’s justification – defending its eastern border against perceived threats from Russia and Belarus – raises serious questions about the future of humanitarian law and the safety of vulnerable populations.
A Reversal of Decades of Progress
For over two decades, the Ottawa Convention, as well known as the Anti-Personnel Mine Ban Treaty, stood as a testament to international cooperation in limiting the horrors of war. By 2025, all 27 EU member states were parties to the treaty, actively participating in mine relief efforts globally. The European Union funded projects in countries like Lebanon and Ukraine, supporting demining operations and providing assistance to victims. Organizations like HALO Ukraine and PRODECO were making tangible progress in removing explosives and reintegrating survivors into society. This progress is now under threat.
Poland’s Rationale and the Arms Industry Response
Poland’s Deputy Defense Minister, Pawel Zalewski, stated that anti-personnel mines are “one of the most important elements of the defense structure” being constructed along its eastern border. This decision has been swiftly capitalized on by Polish arms manufacturers. State-owned Bydgoszcz Electromechanical Plant Belma and Niewiadów Polish Military Group JSC have both announced their readiness to resume production, with plans to secure the 800-kilometer border and potentially sell surplus mines to neighboring Baltic states, and Ukraine. The speed with which these companies mobilized highlights a pre-existing capacity and willingness to re-engage with this controversial market.
Humanitarian Concerns and the Risk to Civilians
International monitoring organizations consistently demonstrate the disproportionate impact of anti-personnel mines on civilian populations. Roughly 80-85% of victims worldwide are civilians, including a significant number of children. The situation in Ukraine, where mines have been extensively deployed, exemplifies this danger, disrupting agricultural practices and endangering communities long after conflicts subside. Ukrainian farmers have even taken on the task of demining their own land, awaiting government reimbursement. These weapons do not simply conclude conflicts; they perpetuate harm for generations.
The Plight of Refugees and Migrants
Amnesty International has raised serious concerns about the potential impact of landmines on refugees and migrants attempting to cross Poland’s borders. Poland has a documented history of unlawful pushbacks and ill-treatment of individuals seeking asylum at its border with Belarus, coupled with restrictions on humanitarian access. The reintroduction of mines adds another layer of danger to an already precarious situation. The suspension of the right to seek asylum in March 2025, coinciding with Poland’s announcement of withdrawal from the Ottawa Convention, further exacerbates these concerns.
EU’s Response and the Erosion of Credibility
The collective withdrawal of several EU member states from the Ottawa Convention represents a significant shift in national security policies and undermines the bloc’s credibility on international humanitarian law. Despite decades of advocating for a mine-free world and funding demining initiatives, the EU remained largely silent in the face of these withdrawals, refusing to issue even a condemnation. This inaction raises questions about the EU’s commitment to upholding its stated values and principles.
Future Trends and Potential Implications
The Polish decision is likely to have ripple effects across Eastern Europe and beyond. Increased demand for anti-personnel mines could stimulate production in other countries, potentially leading to a wider proliferation of these weapons. The focus on border security, driven by geopolitical tensions, may overshadow humanitarian concerns, creating a climate where the employ of indiscriminate weapons is normalized. The erosion of the Ottawa Convention could weaken the global norm against landmines, hindering international efforts to clear existing minefields and assist victims.
The Rise of Autonomous Mine-Laying Systems
The development and deployment of unmanned mine-laying vehicles, such as Poland’s Bluszcz system, capable of laying anti-tank mines within 48 hours, represent a concerning trend. These systems reduce the risk to soldiers even as increasing the speed and scale of mine deployment. The use of autonomous systems raises ethical questions about accountability and the potential for unintended consequences.
Increased Border Militarization and Exclusion Zones
The justification for reintroducing landmines – border security – is likely to fuel further militarization of borders across Europe. The creation of “buffer/exclusion zones,” like the one currently in place along the Poland-Belarus border, will likely develop into more common, restricting access for humanitarian organizations and increasing the risks for migrants and refugees.
FAQ
Q: What is the Ottawa Convention?
A: The Ottawa Convention, or Anti-Personnel Mine Ban Treaty, prohibits the use, production, stockpiling, and transfer of anti-personnel mines.
Q: Why is Poland withdrawing from the treaty?
A: Poland cites the demand to defend its eastern border against potential threats from Russia and Belarus.
Q: What are the dangers of anti-personnel mines?
A: These mines are indiscriminate and pose a significant threat to civilians, often causing long-term injuries and hindering economic development.
Q: What is the EU’s response to these withdrawals?
A: The EU has largely remained silent, failing to condemn the decisions of its member states.
Q: What is the Bluszcz system?
A: Bluszcz is a Polish-manufactured unmanned vehicle capable of rapidly laying anti-tank mines.
Pro Tip: Stay informed about developments in international humanitarian law and the impact of armed conflict on civilian populations by following organizations like Amnesty International and the International Campaign to Ban Landmines.
Did you know? Roughly 80-85% of landmine victims are civilians, highlighting the indiscriminate nature of these weapons.
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