UXO/Demining Caucus Hosts Congressional Reception to Kick Off 118th Congress

UXO/Demining Caucus Hosts Congressional Reception to Kick Off 118^th Congress

On Wednesday, February 1st, the Unexploded Ordnance (UXO)/Demining Caucus hosted a reception to welcome the 118th Congress and kick off the new year. The caucus co-chairs, Reps. Bill Johnson and Chrissy Houlahan, welcomed Members of Congress, staff, demining organizations and the policy community to learn about U.S. demining programs. The event presented the multiple facets of U.S. demining, from traditional demining to risk education, technological research and development, and survivor assistance.

"I’m very much looking forward to working with Rep. Houlahan to continue these efforts of raising awareness on the dangers of unexploded ordnance, in addition to the successful demining work that’s occurring around the world."

Rep. Bill Johnson, Caucus co-chair

Attendees heard about the urgency of supporting demining programs from both co-chairs, caucus members Reps. Ami Bera and Earl Blumenauer, and the State Department Office of Weapons Removal and Abatement's Deputy Director, Steven Costner.

The co-chairs also welcomed remarks from Laos Ambassador to the United States and Canada, Sisavath Inphachanh, and former U.S. Ambassador to Laos, Douglas Hartwick regarding the critical nature of humanitarian demining and the impact of explosive threats on civilian lives.

"I am a veteran, and now I’m a third term member of both the House Armed Services and the House Foreign Affairs Committee. And I’m really familiar as a consequence from my background and also my experience here in Congress on the devastating impact that wars have on our local communities."

Rep. Chrissy Houlahan, Caucus co-chair

Chris Whatley, executive director of The HALO Trust (USA) stated, “The bipartisan Unexploded Ordnance (UXO)/Demining Caucus has been a powerful voice for demining programs since its establishment in 2018, helping ensure that millions of people around the globe can stay safe from landmines, explosive threats, and diverted weapons. In the 118^th Congress, HALO looks forward to supporting the leadership of incoming caucus co-chair, Rep. Chrissy Houlahan, who brings to this issue a wealth of knowledge and passion for creating a safer world, and continuing to work with co-chair Rep. Bill Johnson, whose dedication to demining programs is truly inspiring."

Click here to learn more about the UXO/Demining Caucus and to invite your Representative to join.

See the speaking program from the event below: