Debate Intensifies Over Sweden's Possible Return to Anti-Personnel Mines
The debate around Sweden's potential reintroduction of anti-personnel mines intensifies as security concerns grow.
Key Points
- • Aron Lund advocates for Sweden to reconsider its stance on anti-personnel mines amidst security threats.
- • Finland's decision to leave the Ottawa Convention has prompted similar discussions in Sweden.
- • Technological advancements may make modern mines safer for civilians.
- • 833 deaths or injuries reported globally in 2023 associated with landmines.
As Sweden grapples with security threats, particularly from Russia, a renewed debate is igniting around the potential reintroduction of anti-personnel mines. In a recent opinion piece, Aron Lund advocates for Sweden to consider withdrawing from the Ottawa Convention, which prohibits the use of these mines. He urges that this step is necessary to bolster Sweden’s defense capabilities in light of shifting regional security dynamics.
Citing Finland’s recent announcement to leave the Ottawa Convention, Lund argues that Sweden should re-evaluate its stance on anti-personnel mines, especially as more Eastern European countries signal similar intents. Over 160 countries have signed the convention, yet compliance is waning in a time of rising military tensions in Europe.
Lund highlights that while there were 833 documented deaths or injuries related to landmines globally in 2023, he contends that the technological advancements in mine design have rendered modern mines safer for civilians compared to their predecessors. This shift in technology, he argues, may help mitigate the risks associated with mine deployment. Additionally, he points out that both Russia and other world powers, such as the United States and China, remain outside the convention, thus creating a challenging environment for treaty-compliant states like Sweden.
Lund concludes by suggesting that if Sweden was to leave the Ottawa Convention, it could still support international mine clearance efforts, positioning Sweden as a defender against the threats posed by such weapons while addressing its security needs.