Introduction
Landmines, explosive remnants of war (ERW), and improvised explosive devices (IEDs) remain some of the most insidious threats in post-conflict regions worldwide. These hidden dangers do not just endanger lives but also impede development, perpetuate poverty, and block access to essential services. Across conflict zones like Gaza, Ukraine, Afghanistan, and South Sudan, the struggle to clear these deadly remnants is ongoing, involving brave individuals working tirelessly to make their homelands safer. This article delves into the broader context of mine action, the efforts of the United Nations Mine Action Service (UNMAS), and the personal stories of deminers on the front lines.
The Legacy of Landmines and Explosive Remnants of War
Landmines and ERWs have been used extensively in conflicts throughout the 20th and 21st centuries. Their deployment has had long-lasting impacts on civilian populations, often affecting areas long after hostilities have ceased. Countries like Afghanistan, which have endured decades of conflict, are littered with these deadly devices, making everyday life perilous.
In Gaza, recurring conflicts have left a landscape fraught with unexploded ordnance. In Ukraine, the ongoing conflict has resulted in widespread contamination of land, posing serious risks to civilians and complicating post-conflict recovery. South Sudan, after years of civil war, faces similar challenges, with vast areas remaining unsafe due to landmines and other ERWs.
Human Impact: A Global Crisis
The human toll of landmines and ERWs is staggering. On average, one person is killed or injured by an explosive device every hour, and many victims are children. These devices not only cause immediate physical harm but also have long-term psychological and socio-economic impacts. Survivors often face lifelong disabilities, requiring extensive medical care and rehabilitation, which are frequently unavailable in conflict-affected areas.
The presence of mines and ERWs hampers humanitarian efforts, obstructs economic development, and limits access to education and healthcare. In many regions, arable land remains unusable, perpetuating food insecurity and poverty. The fear of mines prevents displaced populations from returning home, prolonging their suffering and instability.
Voices from the Field: Stories of Deminers
Gaza: A Continuous Struggle
In Gaza, deminers work under extremely challenging conditions, often risking their lives to clear areas contaminated by unexploded ordnance. One such deminer, Ahmad, has been working with a local NGO for over a decade. He describes his work as both perilous and essential, emphasizing the need to make areas safe for children to play and families to rebuild their lives. Ahmad’s team operates with limited resources, but their dedication is unwavering.
Ukraine: Facing New Threats
The conflict in Ukraine has introduced a new wave of landmines and ERWs. Deminer Natalia works with an international organization to clear contaminated areas in the eastern part of the country. She recounts the harrowing experience of discovering mines near schools and playgrounds. Natalia’s efforts are not just about removing physical threats but also educating local communities about the dangers and ensuring that the areas are safe for future generations.
Afghanistan: Decades of Devastation
Afghanistan is one of the most heavily mined countries in the world. Deminer Abdul has spent years clearing mines from the countryside. His work is painstaking and dangerous, but he remains motivated by the desire to restore safety and normalcy to his homeland. Abdul highlights the importance of international support and advanced technology in mine-clearing operations, which have significantly improved over the years but still face substantial challenges.
South Sudan: Reclaiming the Land
In South Sudan, deminer Mary works in areas where the local population is desperate to return home but cannot due to the presence of mines. She describes the joy and relief of families when they are informed that their land is safe again. Mary’s work is not only about removing mines but also about restoring hope and facilitating the country’s recovery from years of conflict.
The Role of UN Mine Action Service (UNMAS)
The United Nations Mine Action Service (UNMAS) plays a pivotal role in coordinating international efforts to address the threat of mines, ERWs, and IEDs. Established in 1997, UNMAS works in collaboration with national authorities, NGOs, and other international organizations to implement mine action programs across the globe.
UNMAS focuses on five key pillars: clearance, risk education, victim assistance, advocacy, and stockpile destruction. By integrating mine action into broader humanitarian and development agendas, UNMAS aims to enhance the safety and security of affected communities, promote socio-economic development, and support peacebuilding efforts.
In 2024, to commemorate the International Day for Mine Awareness and Assistance in Mine Action, UNMAS is advocating for greater awareness of the needs and rights of people with disabilities in conflict and peacebuilding settings. This aligns with the five-year anniversary of Security Council Resolution 2475, which calls upon Member States and Security Council members to protect persons with disabilities, ensure they have access to assistance, and include them in conflict prevention and peacebuilding efforts.
Mine Action Awareness: Protecting Lives, Building Peace
Raising awareness about the dangers of mines and ERWs is crucial. Risk education programs conducted by UNMAS and its partners are designed to inform and protect civilians living in contaminated areas. These programs teach people how to recognize and avoid mines and ERWs, significantly reducing the risk of accidents.
Victim assistance is another critical component of mine action. This includes medical care, rehabilitation, psychological support, and socio-economic reintegration for survivors. Ensuring that survivors can lead productive and fulfilling lives is a key goal of UNMAS and aligns with broader human rights and development objectives.
Stockpile destruction and the clearance of contaminated areas are ongoing processes that require significant resources and international cooperation. The use of advanced technology, such as drones and robotic systems, has enhanced the efficiency and safety of mine-clearing operations. However, the scale of the problem remains immense, necessitating continued commitment and support from the global community.
Conclusion
The global issue of landmines and ERWs requires sustained and coordinated efforts to mitigate their devastating impacts. The stories of deminers from Gaza, Ukraine, Afghanistan, and South Sudan highlight the bravery and dedication of individuals working on the front lines of this crisis. Their work is essential in protecting lives, fostering peace, and enabling the recovery and development of affected communities.
As we commemorate initiatives like the International Day for Mine Awareness and Assistance in Mine Action, it is crucial to remember the ongoing struggles faced by millions living in contaminated areas. By supporting mine action programs and advocating for the rights and needs of all affected individuals, including those with disabilities, we can contribute to a safer and more peaceful world.
The commitment of the international community, through organizations like UNMAS, remains vital in addressing the legacy of mines and ERWs. Together, we can work towards a future where every person can live free from the fear of explosive remnants of war and where post-conflict recovery and development are achievable goals for all.
