Why The Renewed Interest: The Mine Ban Treaty

In this episode of Silent Killers, host David Peck engages with advocates Alma Taslidzan and Kasia Derlicka-Rosenbauer to discuss the pressing issues surrounding landmines and disarmament. They share personal stories that led them to become advocates, the significance of the 1997 Treaty banning landmines, and the ongoing challenges faced in the fight against these weapons. The conversation highlights the human cost of landmines, the impact of funding cuts on advocacy efforts, and the importance of mobilizing citizens for change. Despite the challenges, both guests express hope and determination to continue their work in promoting humanitarian disarmament.Kasia Derlicka-Rosenbauer is The ICBL's Policy and Government Liaison Manager. She has been involved in the work of the campaigns since 2002, first as a national campaigner and Landmine Monitor researcher, and since 2007 as staff. Previously Kasia worked for the Polish Red Cross and briefly for the EU/Red Cross Office in Brussels. Her first exposure to the issue of landmines was in 1997 when she volunteered at a German NGO Friedensdorf International taking care of children from war-torn countries many of whom were landmine survivors. Kasia holds a Master’s degree in International Relations from the University of Warsaw and her thesis was devoted to the role of civil society in bringing about the Mine Ban Treaty.Alma Taslidžan has devoted her career to disarmament and protection of civilians, from 2007 working for Handicap International for South East Europe, on projects related to mine action and disability. Since 2014 she leads Disarmament and Protection of Civilians advocacy for Humanity & Inclusion. She contributed to the development of the political declaration to address the humanitarian consequences from the use of explosive weapons in populated areas and establishing the Explosive Weapons Monitor. She is in touch with survivors and conflict affected population through research projects and makes sure that assistance to victims is always on the agenda of disarmament discussions. She also monitors the implementation of the Mine Ban Treaty and the Convention on Cluster Munitions. She sits in the Boards of INEW, ICBL and CMC, and she is a member of the Monitoring and Research Committee of the Landmine and Cluster Munition Monitor and Board member of the Explosive Weapons Monitor.Taslidžan holds a university degree in Journalism and Public relations, from the Faculty of Political Science, University of Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina.David Peck is a writer, speaker, and award-winning podcaster who works at the intersection of storytelling, social change, and meaningful dialogue. As the host of Face2Face and former host of Toronto Threads on 640 AM, he has published over 650 in-depth interviews with some of the world’s most compelling thinkers, artists and storytellers, including Viggo Mortensen, Sarah Polley, Raoul Peck, Werner Herzog, Chris Hadfield, David Cronenberg, Gillian Anderson and Wade Davis. With a background in philosophy and international development, David brings a thoughtful, globally aware perspective to every conversation. He’s a published author and experienced keynote speaker, known for creating spaces where complexity is welcomed and ideas come alive. Whether moderating panels, hosting live events, or speaking on issues ranging from ethics to media, David’s work is grounded in a deep curiosity about people. At heart, he simply loves good conversation — and believes it’s one of the best ways we grow, connect, and make sense of the world.For more information about David Peck’s podcasting, writing and public speaking please visit his site here.F2F Music and Image Copyright: David Peck, ICBL and Face2Face used with permission. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.