It was formed in 1992 after five groups with an interest in the area, including Human Rights Watch, medico international, Handicap International, Physicians for Human Rights, Vietnam Veterans of America Foundation and the Mines Advisory Group agreed to cooperate on their common goal. Many other organisations, as of 2003 over 1100, later joined the group.
The campaign received support around the world. A prominent supporter was Princess Diana.
It's biggest success was in 1999 when the Ottawa Treaty banning the production and use of anti-personnel mines came into force, though the United States, Russia and People's Republic of China has thus far refused to sign.
The organisation, and its chief spokesperson Jody Williams, jointly received the 1997 Nobel Peace Prize for their efforts.