When Was The Mine Ban Treaty Signed ?

The Mine Ban Treat, also known as the Ottawa Treaty was originally issued in 1997 and since than has been signed by 154 countries.  There are another 40 countries ready to sign up to it including China and USA.  It came into force on 1 March 1999.

It's original title was the Convention on the Prohibition of the Use, Stockpiling, Production and Transfer of Anti-Personnel Mines and on their Destruction and it's purpose was band all anti-personnel landmines.  

The treaty stops the production of anti-personnel mines as well as forcing those signed up to destroy all anti-personnel mines in its possession within 4 years.

A country must clear all its mined areas within 10 years of signing up to the treaty.  Some mines are allowed to be kept for the purposes of training.

Mixed mines, anti-handling devices, and other static explosive devices against persons are not covered by the treaty.