International Day for Mine Awareness and Assistance in Mine Action Observed Globally

Kathmandu. Today, the International Day for Mine Awareness and Assistance in Mine Action is being observed across various countries worldwide, calling for sustainable international cooperation to raise awareness about the risks posed by landmines and explosive remnants of war, as well as to develop national mine action capacities in affected nations.

On December 8, 2005, the United Nations General Assembly declared April 4 of each year as the International Day for Mine Awareness and Assistance in Mine Action.

Since explosive remnants of war pose serious risks to the safety, health, and lives of civilians, and hinder national and local socio-economic development, the global body has called upon all member states to observe this day with awareness-raising programs.

Established in 1997, the United Nations Mine Action Service (UNMAS) has been working to mitigate the risks posed by landmines, explosive remnants of war, and improvised explosive devices. The organization coordinates UN-wide activities, leads country-level programs, and supports peacekeeping efforts to reduce these risks.

According to the UN, creating a world free from landmines and explosive remnants requires ensuring development in a safe environment for individuals and communities, while addressing the needs of victims. Currently, various UN agencies, specialized bodies, funds, and programs are operating mine action initiatives in 30 countries.

Mine action facilitates the delivery of humanitarian aid, supports peacekeeping personnel, and enables civilians to live without fear.

However, even after the end of wars and conflicts, the risk of landmines and explosive devices remains prevalent in countries such as Colombia, Ethiopia, Lebanon, Myanmar, Gaza, and Syria.

In a message issued on this occasion, UN Secretary-General António Guterres emphasized the need to end conflicts, noting that landmines, explosive remnants of war, and improvised explosive devices have had an unimaginable impact on civilians in conflict-affected countries, particularly children.