Finland's Formal Withdrawal from Landmine Ban
On July 10, Finland formally notified the United Nations of its decision to withdraw from the Ottawa Anti-Personnel Landmines Convention, a treaty that prohibits the use, stockpiling, production, and transfer of anti-personnel mines. The Finnish Ministry of Foreign Affairs stated that the withdrawal will take effect in January 2026, six months after the notification. This move marks a significant shift in Finland's defense policy, driven by what the ministry described as a 'deteriorated security environment.'
The decision allows Finland to reintroduce anti-personnel mines as part of its defensive capabilities. According to the ministry, 'The withdrawal from the Convention will enable Finland to reintroduce anti-personnel mines to the range of its available means of defence.' Finland has also informed all other States Parties to the Convention, the Secretary-General of the United Nations as the Depositary, and the United Nations Security Council of its intent to exit the treaty.
Security Concerns Drive Policy Shift
The primary reason cited for Finland's withdrawal is the heightened security threats in the region, particularly in light of tensions with neighboring Russia. The Finnish Ministry of Foreign Affairs emphasized that the decision is rooted in 'Finland's defence needs in the deteriorated security environment.' This policy reversal reflects growing concerns among NATO members in Eastern Europe about military vulnerabilities, especially following Russia's actions in Ukraine.
Finland's move follows a broader trend among some NATO countries reevaluating their commitments to the Ottawa Treaty. Earlier announcements from Poland, Lithuania, Latvia, and Estonia indicate a regional shift towards bolstering defensive measures, including the potential use of landmines. While Finland has expressed continued support for the humanitarian goals of the Convention, the priority appears to be on strengthening national security.
Global Reactions and Implications
The international community has reacted with concern to Finland's withdrawal. Esther Major, Amnesty International's Deputy Director for Research in Europe, called the move 'a disturbing backward step' that could jeopardize civilian lives. This sentiment underscores the potential risks associated with reintroducing anti-personnel mines, which have long been criticized for their indiscriminate impact on non-combatants.
Finland's exit from the treaty, set for January 2026, may influence other nations to reconsider their positions on the Ottawa Convention, especially those facing similar security challenges. With 165 states currently party to the treaty as of March 2025, according to Wikipedia data, the withdrawal of Finland and other Eastern European nations could weaken global efforts to eliminate anti-personnel landmines. The coming months will likely see further debate on balancing national defense needs with humanitarian commitments.