ITF at the Regional Conference on Victim Assistance in Ljubljana, Slovenia
From August 27 to 29, 2024, ITF attended the European Regional Conference on Advancing Victim Assistance and Cooperation in Ljubljana, Slovenia. This event marked the final step in the lead-up to the Siem Reap-Angkor Summit on a Mine-Free World and was organized by the Anti-Personnel Mine Ban Convention, with support from the Council of the European Union. The conference brought together global leaders, policy-makers, and experts, including H.E. Dr. Ly Tuch, President of the Convention, Dr. Aleš Musar, spouse of the President of the Republic of Slovenia, and State Secretary at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Slovenia, Mr. Marko Štucin. Their participation highlighted the importance of international cooperation in addressing the ongoing needs of mine victims and their families, particularly in providing comprehensive rehabilitation and socio-economic support.
ITF Director, H.E. Tomaž Lovrenčič, participated in the opening ceremony, stressing the need for victim assistance to extend beyond immediate medical care. He highlighted the importance of long-term rehabilitation programs, including physical therapy, psychosocial support, and economic reintegration. This aligned with the conference's focus on advancing victim-centered approaches based on human rights, gender equality, and inclusion. The discussions throughout the Conference reinforced the need for sustained global partnerships to meet the rights and needs of mine survivors as outlined in the Convention's framework.
A key feature of the conference was the visit to the URI Soča Rehabilitation Institute, Slovenia’s leading center for treating individuals with physical disabilities, including mine victims. Participants had the opportunity to observe the prosthesis-making process and witness first-hand how rehabilitation services are provided to landmine survivors. The visit emphasized the vital role that rehabilitation centers play in helping mine victims regain mobility, rebuild their lives, and reintegrate into society. Such centers offer not only physical care but also emotional and psychological support, which is essential for victims to cope with the long-term impacts of their injuries.
During the socio-economic empowerment panel, ITF presented its initiatives supporting mine victims through sustainable livelihoods and community reintegration. A key focus was on ITF’s use of sports as a tool for rehabilitation, showcasing long-standing support for Bosnia's OKI Fantomi sitting volleyball club and recent project which supported Ukraine's female sitting volleyball team. These projects help mine survivors regain physical strength and provide a sense of purpose through teamwork. Beyond physical recovery, they foster community belonging and reduce the isolation often felt by mine victims.
In addition to sports, ITF has implemented successful beekeeping initiatives in Bosnia and Herzegovina and Lebanon. These projects provide mine victims and their families with the opportunity to establish sustainable livelihoods by engaging in apiculture. The beekeeping initiatives not only offer a source of income but also contribute to local food security and environmental sustainability. By involving family members in these projects, the programs help to create a supportive environment that benefits entire communities, offering a sense of stability and hope for the future.
The conference concluded with discussions between mine survivors and international representatives, including Dr. Musar and Mr. Juan Carlos Ruan, Director of the Convention's Implementation Support Unit. These conversations brought attention to the importance of victim-centered approaches, emphasizing the need to prioritize the voices and experiences of those directly affected by landmines. The event highlighted the importance of continuous cooperation between governments, NGOs, and international bodies in providing comprehensive victim assistance that addresses both immediate needs and long-term recovery.
Looking ahead, ITF is eager to continue these conversations and build on the progress made at the European Regional Conference as preparations continue for the Siem Reap-Angkor Summit. We remain committed to advancing victim assistance initiatives that not only restore the health and dignity of mine victims but also empower them to fully participate in society. With continued support from partners and donors, ITF aims to sustain its projects and provide ongoing assistance to those affected by landmines around the world.