Anti-personnel landmines are cheap to purchase. But they are expensive to remove. The cost of clearing the mines already deployed throughout the world is in the billions. Anti-personnel mines are also a serious barrier to the development of many of the world's weakest economies. Fields, roads, bridges and entire communities have been mined.
Land is unsafe to farm.
The distribution of food and others essential supplies is made difficult. The Treaty was the result of a campaign which began in the early 90s. As of January 2000, the Treaty has been signed by 137 governments of which 90 have ratified. Destroy existing stockpiles within four years of the Convention coming into force. Clear minefields within ten years.