Charities around the world are demanding urgent action on Mine Awareness Day, as landmine casualties continue to rise globally. The International Campaign to Ban Landmines (ICBL) has highlighted that while demining efforts have slowed, new threats are emerging. Over 10 million landmines are still hidden across 64 countries, and they continue to kill or injure one person every hour. The situation is worsened by the fact that children remain the most vulnerable victims of these deadly devices, especially in conflict zones.
As concerns grow over the ongoing threat of landmines, the European Union’s goal of a mine-free world by 2025 faces significant setbacks. Latvia, Lithuania, Estonia, and Poland made headlines in March when they announced plans to leave the 1997 anti-mine treaty. Their defense ministers cited Russia’s actions as the primary reason for abandoning the agreement, a decision that could unravel decades of global progress in mine clearance.
Rising Threats as Demining Efforts Slow
Despite ongoing global efforts, the demining process has not kept pace with the rising number of landmines being planted each year. Experts estimate that between two to five million new mines are planted annually, with Africa being the hardest hit, followed by regions in Europe and Asia. In many countries, landmine contamination from past conflicts still poses daily risks to civilians.
Azerbaijan, which has been dealing with the deadly remnants of war, has launched large-scale mine clearance projects, prioritizing vital infrastructure such as roads, water systems, and communication lines. Adil Aslanov from the Azerbaijan National Agency for Mine Action (ANAMA) explained that rebuilding affected areas requires significant resources and coordination. Azerbaijan has expanded its mine-clearing teams to meet the increasing need, with many other countries also stepping up efforts to clear contaminated zones.
Ukraine, still dealing with the aftermath of its ongoing conflict, faces a particularly grim situation. The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) estimates that one-third of Ukrainian territory is contaminated by explosives. Experts say the country will need to clear an estimated two million mines, a task that could cost up to €35 million. Ukrainian officials have warned that the shortage of trained demining specialists remains one of the biggest challenges.
The Role of Awareness in Preventing Future Casualties
One of the key messages on Mine Awareness Day is the critical need for education and public awareness. Survivors like Hasanali Aliyev, who lost part of his leg in a landmine explosion at age 23, have become vocal advocates for mine clearance and education. Aliyev, who described his amputation as a painful and life-changing experience, is now urging governments to continue funding awareness campaigns and demining operations.
“Teaching people about mines prevents more injuries and saves futures,” Aliyev said. His personal story serves as a powerful reminder of the ongoing risks posed by landmines and the importance of education in preventing further suffering. He stressed the importance of young people living in conflict zones understanding the dangers of landmines and urged governments to prioritize funding for awareness campaigns in heavily affected regions.
Experts and charities worldwide have echoed Aliyev’s calls, emphasizing the need for coordinated efforts in mine clearance, victim support, and public education. They argue that only through global cooperation can landmines be eradicated and prevent them from continuing to claim innocent lives.
The Need for Global Cooperation
Charities and experts agree that the battle against landmines requires a united global effort. With new mines being planted each year and millions still buried in conflict zones, the work of clearing and educating is more critical than ever. The ICBL and other organizations are calling for governments, especially those in affected regions, to fund and support demining operations and raise awareness about the dangers of unexploded ordnance.
As the world continues to grapple with the devastating consequences of landmines, it is clear that a global approach is essential to mitigate the risks and save lives. Governments, NGOs, and individuals must work together to address this ongoing crisis and ensure that future generations can live without the constant threat of landmine-related injuries and fatalities.