antipersonellminer

Antipersonellminer is a term used to refer to a class of devices designed to injure or kill people. In common usage, the standard term is antipersonnel mine. These devices are typically deployed by burying or concealing them on or near the ground and activated when a person applies pressure, disturbs a trigger, or is exposed to remote detonation. They may work by producing a blast that injures limbs or by dispersing fragments in the surrounding area. Some designs are designed to project fragments at a height to maximize injury.

Historically, antipersonellminer devices have been used to deny access, channel movement, or deter advances in conflict zones. They cause civilian casualties and create long-term hazards because many remain unexploded after hostilities, hindering land use and reconstruction. Demining, risk education, and mine-clearance programs are essential to reduce danger and restore safety.

Legally, antipersonellmines are subject to international restrictions. The Ottawa Treaty of 1997 bans the development, production, stockpiling, and transfer of most antipersonnel mines and obligates states to destroy stockpiles and clear mined areas. Not all countries are parties to the treaty, and some continue to produce or stockpile these weapons. Ongoing humanitarian mine-action efforts work to locate, remove, and destroy remaining devices and to support affected communities.