The UN has revealed that at least 58 states and territories are contaminated by landmines, with devastating impacts on civilian populations. In 2024 alone, nearly 945 people were killed and over 4,300 injured due to these explosive remnants of war, with civilians making up around 90% of casualties. This alarming statistic highlights the ongoing danger posed by landmines, particularly in conflict zones like Myanmar, Syria, and Ukraine, where the threat persists long after hostilities cease.
The report underscores a troubling trend: despite the Anti-Personnel Mine Ban Treaty being in place for nearly three decades, the production and use of landmines continue unabated. Countries such as Estonia and Poland have recently withdrawn from the treaty, raising concerns about the future of global mine clearance efforts. The UN’s call for states to recommit to the treaty is critical, as the humanitarian crisis caused by landmines hampers recovery and development in affected regions.
Moreover, the financial support for mine action has drastically decreased, with contributions to the UN Voluntary Trust Fund plummeting from $125 million to just $46 million over seven years. This decline in funding poses a significant barrier to clearing contaminated areas, prolonging displacement and preventing agricultural use of land, which could otherwise support local economies.
As the international community grapples with these challenges, the plight of children remains particularly concerning, as they account for over 40% of civilian casualties from landmines. The urgency for renewed commitment and action is clear, as the consequences of inaction will continue to reverberate through communities for generations to come.
Source: Euronews
