The ban on depleted uranium weapons: After Belgium, Costa Rica
On April 27, 2011, the Congress of Costa Rica passed a law prohibiting Uranium Weapons in its territories. Costa Rica becomes the second country in the world to pass such a law, Belgium was the first (Belgian law of May 11, 2007, in effect since June 21, 2009, and Belgian law of July 16, 2009). This law will prohibit the use, commerce, transit, production, distribution and storage of uranium weapons in Costa Rica's territories. This landmark legislation gives momentum to other countries seeking to pass similar legislation in their own countries.
Presently New Zealand and Ireland are discussing similar legislation. The Costa Rican Congress has worked on this legislation for over two years and is to be commended for their work on this very important legislation; the bill now goes to President Laura Chinchilla for her signature. The Costa Rican law will strengthen current efforts for an International Treaty banning depleted uranium weapons, often referred to as “DU Weapons”, which are currently being used in armed conflicts.
Reproduction of information from this site is authorised, except for commercial purposes, provided the source and the name of the author are acknowledged.