Mine Action = Freedom

04.04.2016 – Every year landmines and other explosive hazards kill or injure thousands of people across the globe. The toll of human suffering is devastating.

Mine action ensures that landmines and explosive hazards in war-torn areas are found and destroyed, making possible the delivery of humanitarian assistance. Clearing roads and runways of explosives, isolating weapons contaminated areas, and training local people to demine and dispose of explosives are all crucial first steps in the vital humanitarian effort that follows. 

The United Nations works in the most affected countries and territories of the world to mitigate the impact of landmines and explosive hazards.  Every year on 4 April, the International Day of Mine Awareness and Assistance in Mine Action is observed to highlight the destructive impact mines have on human lives.

"Mine action is an investment in humanity.  It helps nurture peaceful societies, where those in need can receive aid, and refugees and internally displaced persons can safely return home, and children can go to school," said Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon in statement, "The first-ever World Humanitarian Summit will convene in Istanbul next month. My report in advance of the Summit highlights the unacceptable impact of mines and explosive remnants of war on civilians." 

Mine action also includes educating affected populations, especially children, to the risks posed by explosive hazards and ensuring that assistance is provided to victims, their families and communities.  

British actor Daniel Craig, the Global Advocate for the Elimination of Mines and Explosive Hazards said in a video message, "their presence, real or perceived, curtails freedom: freedom to play and go to school, freedom to collect food and water.  We must join forces to defeat these deadly devices." 

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UNRICs Related Links

· International Day of Mine Awareness and Assistance in Mine Action

· Mine Action

· World Humanitarian Summit

Photo: DFID