Summary of HRES 361: International Day for Mine Awareness and Assistance in Mine Action
Bill Number: HRES 361
Introduced: April 30, 2025
Status: Submitted in House
Classification: Resolution
Purpose and Intent
HRES 361 aims to recognize April 4, 2025, as the International Day for Mine Awareness and Assistance in Mine Action. The resolution reaffirms the United States' commitment to eliminating landmines and unexploded ordnance (UXO) globally, while also honoring the contributions of communities affected by these issues, particularly in Southeast Asia.
Key Provisions
The resolution includes several important provisions:
Commitment to Humanitarian Efforts: It reaffirms the U.S. commitment to support international efforts aimed at eliminating landmines and UXO.
Recognition of Affected Communities: The resolution acknowledges the sacrifices of communities in Cambodia, Laos, and Vietnam, including various ethnic groups such as the Hmong, Cham, and Montagnard, who supported U.S. forces during the Vietnam War.
Commemoration of the Vietnam War: It marks the 50th anniversary of the end of the Vietnam War, honoring the sacrifices of U.S. Armed Forces members.
Acknowledgment of Deminers: The resolution recognizes the bravery of individuals in various countries who risk their lives to locate and remove landmines and UXO.
Support for Global Goals: It supports the Maputo +15 declaration from June 27, 2014, which aims to intensify efforts to clear mined areas by 2025.
Call to Action for the U.S. Government: The resolution urges the U.S. government to:
- Continue funding for international humanitarian demining activities.
- Maintain its leadership role in global demining efforts.
- Address legacy mine contamination as a humanitarian priority.
Reaffirmation of International Day Goals: It reaffirms the objectives of the International Day for Mine Awareness and Assistance in Mine Action.
Impact
The resolution is expected to:
- Enhance awareness of the dangers posed by landmines and UXO.
- Strengthen U.S. leadership in international humanitarian efforts related to mine clearance.
- Support communities affected by landmines, particularly those in Southeast Asia, by recognizing their historical context and ongoing challenges.
Legislative Actions
- April 30, 2025: The bill was referred to the Committee on Foreign Affairs and the Committee on Armed Services for consideration.
Sponsors
- Primary Sponsor: Ami Bera
- Cosponsor: David G. Valadao
Related Bills
- SRES 188: A companion resolution in the Senate.
This resolution serves as a significant step in promoting global awareness and action against the dangers of landmines and unexploded ordnance, while also honoring the historical context of U.S. involvement in Southeast Asia.
