The Director General of the Secretariat of the Inter-American Defense Board participated in the 22nd International Meeting of National Mine Action Directors and Advisors of the United Nations in Geneva, Switzerland, from February 5 to 8, 2019. This annual meeting brings together Mine Action stakeholders to discuss emerging issues and exchange best practices and lessons learned.
This year's highlights included: the launch of the UN Mine Action Strategy 2019-2023; challenges of victim assistance; integrated support for survivors, families and affected communities; the inclusion and empowerment of youth and women; the role of Mine Action in preventing humanitarian crises and building peace; the role of Mine Action in protecting children; and mitigating new threats.
In 2018, the United Nations Mine Action Service (UNMAS) convened, coordinated and led the drafting of the United Nations Mine Action Strategy 2019-2023. UNMAS' multilateral approach brought together 12 United Nations entities with diverse functions and mandates. Following months of consultation, collaboration and work involving more than 300 stakeholders, the Strategy was completed on time and approved by the Directors of the Inter-Agency Mine Coordination Group on Tuesday, December 4. The result is a practical, needs-oriented, people-centred and resource-efficient document, with clear objectives and indicators by which progress and results can be assessed. The Strategy is also an excellent example of greater coherence in the United Nations approach to Mine Action.
Two of the most important aspects of the Strategy are that it represents an accountability framework for the United Nations system and introduces a Theory of Change for United Nations engagement in mine action. A strengthened Monitoring and Evaluation mechanism will apply clear indicators and report on the United Nations contributions for which it has the mandate and responsibility, ensuring collective accountability at headquarters and country levels.
The official launch of the UN Mine Action Strategy 2019-2023 took place during the meeting of National Mine Action Directors and United Nations Advisors. Data is collected through the mechanism managed by UNMAS on behalf of the Inter-Agency Mine Action Coordination Group (IACG-MA).
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