The Colombian Campaign Against Mines (CCCM) has called on the government to better recognize victims of landmines in the Victims and Land Restitution Act, reported newspaper El Espectador Tuesday.
“In our 12 years of working in Colombia, we have observed with concern that victims of MAP/MUSE/AEI [landmines] have not been prioritzed in the care and investment of resources by the State,” the CCCM said in a public statement.
The NGO called on those who oversee the running of public institutions to fulfill their responsibility.
The CCCM suggested the implementation of the victims’ compensation and land restitution law should be a “joint effort” between the government, victims orgnaizations and NGOs, to overcome the “strong lack of protection” victims have received.
The NGO offered recommendations that could improve the situation for victims of landmines, including training and organization for victims movements so that they can better defend their rights.
The CCCM will stage a series of forums to raise awareness among authorities on the reality of the situation for the victims of landmines.