Latvia Moves Toward Exit from Ottawa Convention on Anti-Personnel Mines

Riga, Latvia — Latvia's parliament, the Saeima, took a significant step towards withdrawing from the Ottawa Convention on April 3, 2025. This bill, which prohibits the use, stockpiling, and production of anti-personnel mines, received support during its second reading in parliament and now requires a final reading to become law.

Security Concerns Drive Withdrawal

The draft law states that the current security landscape in the Baltic region has considerably changed since Latvia joined the convention two decades ago. Citing Russia's aggression in Ukraine as a key factor influencing its decision, the bill underscores the importance of ensuring that Latvia remains flexible in its defense capabilities. According to the law, "the aggressor does not respect the territorial borders of sovereign states and international law," prompting the need for enhanced deterrent measures.

Support for similar withdrawals has been expressed by neighboring countries, including Estonia, Lithuania, Poland, and Finland. These nations have also cited security threats arising from Russia's actions as a rationale for reassessing their stance on the convention.

Implications for Latvia's Defense Strategy

Defence Minister Andris Sprūds and Foreign Affairs Minister Baiba Braže have emphasized the necessity of coordinated efforts among regional countries, as well as communication with international partners. During discussions among parliamentary committees, a representative from the National Armed Forces noted that withdrawing from the convention would allow Latvia to utilize additional resources for defense and impede potential aggressors more effectively in the event of an attack.

Latvia's Compliance with Previous Obligations

Latvia ratified the Ottawa Convention in 2005, having fully complied with its requirements by not producing, stockpiling, or using unguided anti-personnel mines. The country completed the destruction of its stockpile of these mines in 2010. However, the draft law states that any potential future use of anti-personnel mines would adhere strictly to international law.

Next Steps

As per the draft law, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs must submit a formal withdrawal document, detailing the reasons for leaving the convention, to its member states, the UN Secretary-General, and the Security Council. The withdrawal will take effect six months post-submission of the relevant documents to the UN.

The final reading of the bill is anticipated in the coming weeks, marking a pivotal moment in Latvia's defense policy.

About the Ottawa Convention

The Ottawa Convention was established in 1997 and has been ratified by 164 countries, including all NATO member states, except for the United States. The convention obligates signatories to refrain from using anti-personnel mines and restricts their development, production, acquisition, and transfer.

Membership in the convention is not subject to suspension; it can only be revoked, a process that is governed by Latvia's constitutional framework and requires parliamentary approval.

Conclusion

Latvia's move to withdraw from the Ottawa Convention reflects broader regional security concerns and the necessity for enhanced military capabilities in response to evolving geopolitical challenges. As the situation develops, both domestic and international observers will be watching closely.