Mine Action Weekly, 23 - 29 September 2024

Welcome to a fresh edition of the Mine Action Weekly newsletter, your go-to source for the most important global updates from the mine action sector. Read about the latest news on EO contamination & clearance, EORE, accidents and victim assistance, advocacy efforts, stockpile destruction, mine action innovation & technology, and assistance, cooperation & funding - right here, every Monday. Dive right in and stay up-to-date!

Disclaimers:

• This newsletter features news reports and articles from a variety of sources. Mention of these resources does not indicate agreement with or endorsement of the opinions of others. I do not claim responsibility or credit for these works, and do not vouch for the information contained in them.
• This newsletter is created and managed in a personal capacity, independent of my professional affiliation with Fondation suisse de déminage (FSD).

Weekly News Roundup

The weekly news roundup showcases a low-down of the top mine action news and insights from the past seven days.

1. EO Contamination, Clearance & Land Release

???? Afghanistan: Jebrail: A safe new town for Afghanistan

Ten years after The HALO Trust Afghanistan finished clearing mines near Herat city, a new district of 80,000 people is a refuge for Afghanistan's most persecuted community.

???? Angola: Celebrating Angola’s Leadership in Landmine Clearance and Conservation

Angola is being recognised for its leadership in landmine clearance and conservation efforts, particularly in the Okavango-Zambezi region. The country has made significant progress in removing landmines and promoting wildlife conservation, transforming dangerous areas into safe habitats and supporting community development. This achievement is a testament to Angola's commitment to creating a safer and more sustainable environment.

???? Antarctica: Melting ice, hidden dangers? The suspected explosives buried next to the world’s biggest Adélie penguin rookery

Melting ice near Antarctica’s largest Adélie penguin rookery is exposing suspected World War II explosives, potentially threatening the environment and wildlife. These explosives, possibly buried during the war, highlight the hidden dangers of unexploded ordnance in previously inaccessible regions due to climate change.

???? Azerbaijan's Mine Action Agency reveals latest reports

During mine-clearing operations, 74 anti-personnel mines, 168 anti-tank mines, and 491 unexploded ordnances (UXOs) were found and neutralised from September 16 to 22.

???? Azerbaijan: a center for demining

Azerbaijan hosted the Third International Conference on Mine Action, emphasising the environmental and humanitarian impacts of landmines and the need for resource mobilisation. The event highlighted Azerbaijan's efforts to become a center for demining expertise, training, and international cooperation to address global mine contamination challenges.

???? Azerbaijan's ANAMA showcases subsurface metal detection system at ADEX-2024

Azerbaijan's Mine Action Agency (ANAMA) exhibited the features and applications of the Minelab Metal Detectors F3 detector at the ADEX exhibition in Baku.

???? France: 80 years on, French lake still polluted by World War II bombs

A French environmental group has found artillery shells dating back to World Wars I and II and even the Franco-Prussian war of 1870 in a lake in eastern France. Water samples from Gerardmer in the Vosges mountains show high levels of TNT explosive as well as metals like iron, titanium and lead. A major theatre of conflicts over the past century and a half, France is particularly afflicted by unexploded ordnance, which results in 10 deaths nationwide a year.

???? Netherlands: Ocean Geophysics launches UXO certification support for Dutch offshore wind projects

Ocean Geophysics has launched a UXO (Unexploded Ordnance) certification service to support Dutch offshore wind projects. This initiative aims to ensure the safe construction and operation of wind farms by identifying and clearing UXO risks from seabeds, contributing to both safety and regulatory compliance in the offshore wind sector.

???? Palestine: Unexploded missiles pose threat to Palestinians in central Gaza Strip

Unexploded missiles in the central Gaza Strip pose significant threats to Palestinian civilians, according to local sources. The remnants of past conflicts, including missiles and other ordnance, have caused injuries and fatalities, while efforts to remove these dangers are hampered by ongoing violence and limited resources.

???? Solomon Islands: US, allies clean up WWII explosives left on Solomon Islands battlefields

Explosive ordnance technicians from six countries helped remove more than 3,200 World War II-era bombs, shells and bullets from the Solomon Islands this month.

???? Sri Lanka: Navigating the rocky road towards a mine free Sri Lanka

The article discusses Sri Lanka’s ongoing efforts to become mine-free after decades of conflict. Significant progress has been made, with much of the country cleared of landmines. However, challenges remain in removing remaining mines in conflict-affected areas, with continued support required for demining operations and post-clearance development.

???? Ukraine: Almost 7,000 kilometres of power lines needs to be demined in Kharkiv Oblast

In Kharkiv Oblast, nearly 7,000 kilometres of power lines need to be demined to restore electricity to over 100 settlements. Russian attacks complicate demining in frontline areas, though 2,397 kilometres of lines have already been cleared, enabling partial restoration of services.

???? Ukraine: Military ecologists uncover hazardous heavy metal contamination of soil in the Mykolaiv region

The Ministry of Defence experts analysed the level of soil contamination in three areas in the Mykolaiv region that had already been cleared of mines, specifically in the vicinity of the town of Snihurivka and near the village of Kyselivka in the Pervomaisk community, which had suffered extensive damage from shelling and occupation. Read more here.

???? Ukrainian and NATO Divers Practice Mine Detection in Sea Breeze Drills

During the Sea Breeze drills in Bulgaria, Ukrainian and NATO divers practiced mine detection and clearance using modern underwater drones. The training focused on interoperability and preparing Ukrainian specialists for joint missions with NATO forces. This exercise is crucial for enhancing maritime safety in the heavily mined Black Sea region.

???? Ukrainian Armed Forces showcase demining during offensive in Kursk region

Ukrainian army engineer units are overcoming enemy obstacles in the Kursk region. The Ukrainian Armed Forces have been conducting the operation there since early August, according to the commander of the Land Forces of the Ukrainian Armed Forces Oleksandr Pavliuk. “Domestic equipment and equipment from partners are working. In particular, engineering tanks Wisent, IMR-2, UR-77, M-58 Miclik,” he writes.

???? United Kingdom: Preserving a wobbly bog dotted with WW2 bombs

Preserving a wobbly bog, described as "a real gem in Wales' natural crown" is being made slightly more tricky by the presence of unexploded World War Two bombs.

???? United Kingdom: ‘Doomsday shipwreck’ stuffed with explosives could unleash a Thames tsunami

A wreck packed with 1,400 tonnes of unexploded bombs is deteriorating faster than expected, a survey has found, heightening the risk of a Thames tsunami.

???? Yemen: Saudi project clears 1,384 Houthi mines in Yemen

Members of Saudi Arabia’s Masam Landmine Clearance Project - Yemen removed 1,384 explosive devices from various regions of Yemen last week. The total included two anti-personnel mines, six anti-tank mines, 1,375 unexploded ordnances and one explosive device. The initiative’s managing director said a total of 463,673 mines had been cleared since its inception in 2018.

?? DRC’s Humanitarian Disarmament and Peacebuilding efforts in East Africa & Great Lakes

The Danish Refugee Council / Dansk Flygtningehj?lp (DRC) focuses on humanitarian disarmament and peacebuilding in East Africa and the Great Lakes region. Their efforts include removing landmines, reducing armed violence, and supporting post-conflict recovery. By addressing explosive hazards, DRC helps communities rebuild and promotes long-term peace and development in conflict-affected areas.

?? War Forever, Everywhere: Unexploded Ordnance and the Weaponry We Leave Behind

The article explores the lasting impact of unexploded ordnance (UXO) and abandoned weaponry in post-conflict zones worldwide. It emphasizes the dangers posed by leftover mines, bombs, and shells, which continue to harm civilians long after wars end. The piece calls for global accountability and better mechanisms for cleaning up war remnants to prevent further casualties and environmental damage.

?? Russia’s war devastates Black Sea ecosystems and communities

Russia's war in Ukraine has severely impacted the Black Sea ecosystems, with floating mines posing a constant threat to marine life and coastal communities. These mines endanger biodiversity, disrupt fisheries, and hinder economic activities. The environmental damage also affects local populations who rely on the sea for their livelihoods, highlighting the broader consequences of the conflict beyond the battlefield.

?? Bombs Litter the Baltic Sea—Now Robots Are on Cleanup Duty

The article explores the ongoing efforts to clear unexploded ordnance (UXO) from the Baltic Sea, a remnant of World War II. The region faces environmental and safety risks due to the presence of underwater mines and bombs. Various initiatives are in place to address the hazards, including international collaborations to safely remove and dispose of these explosive remnants, ensuring the safety of marine ecosystems and shipping routes.

Other EO Finds from Around the Globe:

• ???? Australia: Bomb squad called in after explosives found at abandoned Ulverston house. Read more
• ???? India: BSF destroys rusted mine in controlled explosion in J&K's Samba. Read more
• ???? Japan: Major evacuation called in Okinawa for disposal of WW2 unexploded shell. Read more
• ???? New Zealand: 'Historic ordnance' found in Waimate garage, NZDF en route. Read more
• ???? Philippines: Unexploded ordnances recovered in separate locations in Palawan. Read more
• ???? Ukraine: Russian FAB-500 bomb found near bridge in Sumy: road closed to traffic. Read more
• ???? United Kingdom: Bomb squad called to industrial estate after 'old ordinance device' found. Read more
• ???? United Kingdom: Bomb disposal men deal with a First World War shell discovered after more than a century. Read more
• ???? United Kingdom: Bomb squad destroy ordnance on Ynyslas beach. Read more
• ???? United Kingdom: Goodman Street, Hunslet: Bomb disposal called and homes evacuated after suspected grenade found in Leeds canal. Read more

2. Explosive Ordnance Risk Education (EORE)

3. Accidents, Survivors, Victim Assistance

???? Pakistan: Diplomatic convoy carrying Russian ambassador hit by landmine in Pakistan

The escort vehicle of a multi-national diplomatic convoy in Pakistan's Khyber Pakhtunkhwa region hit a landmine near Pakistan’s Mingora on 22 September. Several police officers were injured, though none of the foreign diplomats, including Russian Ambassador Albert P. Khorev, were harmed.

Other EO Accidents from Around the Globe:

• ???? Cambodia: Farmer seriously hurt in mine blast while illegally logging. Read more
• ???? Syria: Civilian killed and another injured in landmine explosion in eastern countryside of Hama. Read more
• ???? Syria: Young man dies in explosion of landmine of war remnants while working in his land. Read more
• ???? Syria: Two shepherds killed by landmine explosion in Hama countryside. Read more
• ???? Ukraine: Five children exploded on an unexploded ordnance in occupied Mariupol. Read more
• ???? Ukraine: Anti-personnel landmine injures man, 64, in city park in Kherson. Read more

4. Advocacy, Policy, Strategy and Standards

???? Azerbaijan: Statement at the UN General Assembly

Azerbaijan's statement at the UN General Assembly emphasised the ongoing landmine crisis in its territories, exacerbated by Armenia's refusal to provide accurate minefield maps. Azerbaijan highlighted its extensive demining efforts, which are crucial for ensuring the safe return of displaced persons and enabling regional development, while calling for international support and cooperation in its mine action programmes.

???? Lebanon: Cluster Munition Coalition Statement on Lebanon

The Cluster Munition Coalition's statement on Lebanon highlights the severe impact of cluster munitions on civilians and calls for increased global efforts to address the contamination. The coalition emphasises the importance of continued international support for Lebanon's clearance operations and advocates for stronger enforcement of the Convention on Cluster Munitions. Read more here.

???? Ukraine: National Demining Strategy: Points for Businesses to Consider

The article highlights Ukraine's National Mine Action Strategy, which outlines key areas for businesses to consider, including safety regulations, land clearance requirements, and collaboration with government agencies. It emphasises the importance of following legal frameworks for operating in regions affected by landmines to ensure safe and sustainable development.

???? ???? United States: CMC and US Campaigners Condemn Sixth Transfer of Banned US Cluster Munitions to Ukraine

The Cluster Munition Coalition expresses deep dismay over President Biden's decision to transfer internationally prohibited cluster munitions to Ukraine for the sixth time in less than 15 months, as announced on 25 September. Read more here.

???? ???? Vatican City: Pope Francis praises Cambodia’s anti-mine efforts, confirms summit participation

Pope Francis commended Cambodia’s humanitarian efforts in eradicating landmines and announced that he will send a delegation to participate in the upcoming Siem Reap-Angkor Summit on a Mine-Free World in November.

?? Prince Harry says Princess Diana would be 'horrified' - before making sweet legacy comparison

Prince Harry stated that his mother, Princess Diana, would be devastated by the current landmine crisis in Ukraine and the escalation of conflicts around the world. He emphasised continuing her legacy in advocating for mine clearance and supporting affected communities globally.

5. Stockpile Destruction, PSSM and Disarmament

?? East, Southern African States Meet in Gaborone to Tackle Ammunition Diversion, Mitigate Risk of Unplanned Explosions at Depots

A meeting in Gaborone, Botswana, gathered East and Southern African states to address ammunition management and the risks of unplanned explosions at depots. The discussions focused on preventing ammunition diversion, enhancing safety protocols, and strengthening regional cooperation. This is part of global efforts under the "Global Framework for Through-life Conventional Ammunition Management" to mitigate risks related to ammunition storage, security, and disposal.

6. Research, Innovation, Technology and Market Trends

???? Azerbaijan: Production of remote-controlled demining machines increased in Azerbaijan

Azerbaijan has increased the production of its "Revival P" and "Revival T" remote-controlled demining machines, now manufacturing over ten units monthly. These machines are used for clearing anti-personnel and anti-tank mines in Karabakh and Ukraine and will soon be exported to Arab countries and Pakistan.

???? Ukraine: Charitable foundation presented demining equipment

The Howard G. Buffett Foundation donated demining equipment to Ukraine, including a remotely operated tractor equipped with mine-clearing trawls. The equipment can safely detonate mines in contaminated agricultural fields. Tested in both the U.S. and Ukraine, the machine improves safety and efficiency in demining operations, essential for restoring productive land and saving lives.

???? Ukraine: Unprecedented in the history of wars. How special vehicles, ground drones and artificial intelligence are clearing mines in Ukraine and buying years of time

Ukraine is utilising advanced demining technologies, including GCS-100 and GCS-200 machines, to speed up land clearance from explosives. These mechanized systems significantly reduce demining time compared to manual methods, clearing thousands of square meters daily. Drones like THeMIS are also deployed for remote demining tasks, enhancing safety and efficiency. The use of these technologies is crucial for reclaiming contaminated land and ensuring the safety of communities in war-affected areas.

7. Mine Action Assistance, Funding and Cooperation

???? Azerbaijan: NATO support to demining in Azerbaijan discussed

Azerbaijan's National Agency for Mine Action (ANAMA) discussed NATO support for demining during a meeting in Luxembourg. The talks focused on enhancing cooperation, implementing new technologies, and sharing best practices to improve mine clearance efforts in Azerbaijan, essential for post-conflict recovery and safety.

???? Azerbaijan: Two Revival mechanical demining vehicles presented to ANAMA

Azerbaijan's Mine Action Agency (ANAMA) received two "Revival" mechanical demining vehicles from AgroDairy at the Azerbaijan International Defense Exhibition ADEX 2024. These vehicles will support large-scale demining and reconstruction activities in the liberated territories, contributing to safe and effective mine clearance efforts. Read more here.

???? ???? Cambodia: China’s support for Cambodia’s demining efforts is vital

Senior Minister Ly Thuch emphasised that China’s support for Cambodia’s demining efforts is crucial for the country’s success in clearing landmines. In his capacity as the First Vice President of the Cambodian Mine Action and Victim Assistance Authority (CMAA), he made these remarks during the closing ceremony of the Cambodia-Laos mine clearance training 2024 in Nanjing city, China, on 27 September 2024.

???? ???? Cambodia: CMAC and JICA extend demining cooperation

The Cambodian Mine Action Centre (CMAC) and the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) have extended their cooperation to continue demining efforts in Cambodia. The partnership aims to enhance technical skills, improve demining operations, and support Cambodia’s goal of becoming landmine-free by 2025.

???? China: Countries tackling unexploded mines hail China's contributions to int'l demining cooperation

The 2024 International Humanitarian Demining Training Course, which was hosted by the Chinese government, on Friday held its closing ceremony in Nanjing, the capital of east China's Jiangsu Province, with attendees praising China's role in international demining cooperation and assistance.

???? ???? Colombia: CMAC wraps up successful training mission to Colombia

Under the South-South Cooperation training programme, the Cambodian Mine Action Centre (CMAC) has successfully and proudly completed its mission to assist with training Colombian demining teams in Colombia.

???? Italy: Undersecretary Silli reaffirms Italy’s international commitment to humanitarian action against anti-personnel mines

Italian Undersecretary Silli chaired the 27th Meeting of the National Committee for Humanitarian Action against Anti-Personnel Mines (CNAUMA) held in Rome. The meeting represents a key opportunity to exchange views with administrations and associations working in the sector.

???? Ukraine receives more humanitarian demining equipment from int’l donors

The State Special Transport Service of Ukraine’s Defense Ministry has received a batch of humanitarian demining equipment handed over by donors from across the Atlantic. The equipment, worth $230,000, includes metal detectors, protective suits, specialised demining tools and lighting devices.

???? ???? Ukraine: A real armored giant: ScanJack 3500 searches for mines in Ukrainian land

Sweden provided Ukraine with ScanJack 3500 as part of military assistance for demining war zones. It was equipped with the 47th engineering brigade, which is already using this machine for demining “in the field”. In order to master the machine, Ukrainian sappers underwent appropriate training in Sweden.

???? United Kingdom: MAG and HALO partnership at Labour Party Conference highlights UK role in tackling global conflict

MAG (Mines Advisory Group) and The HALO Trust partnered during the Labour Party Conference to advocate for increased government support for mine action globally. They highlighted the need for long-term funding and political backing to clear landmines and unexploded ordnance, aiming to reduce civilian casualties and promote post-conflict recovery.

???? ???? Yemen: Supporting humanitarian mine action in Yemen

UNOPS and the UN Resident Coordinator’s Office in Yemen are working to scale-up much-needed mine action operations across the country.

???? Zimbabwe: Lack of funding cripples demining programme

Efforts by the Zimbabwean government to clear deadly landmines in the country planted during the country’s war of liberation have been severely affected by lack of funding, with 95% of affected areas now demined, a Cabinet minister has said.

8. Other News

???? Croatian pyrotechnicians will receive a preferential pension

Croatian deminers will receive special pension benefits due to the dangerous nature of their work. This decision acknowledges the high-risk conditions they face daily while clearing landmines, ensuring their well-being and providing financial security as they age.

???? South Korea: What should you do if you step on a landmine? Explosive dismantling simulation game “PIA” play report that will make your fingers feel cramped

At “SELECTEDINDIE80” in the indie game corner of Tokyo Game Show 2024, a playable PC simulation game “PIA” developed by the Korean development team “Explosive Ordnance Disposal Squad” was on display.

???? ???? Taiwan: US to send all M-136 mine systems to Taiwan by 2026

The United States plans to deliver all 14 M-136 Volcano automated mine delivery systems ordered by Taiwan in 2026, instead of sending seven systems last year and seven more two years from now as originally planned.

???? Ukraine: Bomb disposal expert receives Ukrainian award

Former soldier Ben Remfrey, who has been clearing mines and other ordnances in the country, has been awarded an official Cross of Support to Ukraine. He co-founded Friends of Ukraine EOD , a charity aimed at training Ukrainians in clearing unexploded mines.

Upcoming Events, Courses & Trainings

There are a number of interesting events for the mine action sector in the coming months, and some of the deadlines are approaching quickly.

• The Mine Ban Treaty Fifth Review Conference, also referred to as the Siem Reap-Angkor Summit on a Mine-Free World, will take place on 25–29 November 2024. Learn more here.
• The Swiss Government, through the Federal Department of Defence, Civil Protection and Sport (DDPS), has the honour to invite qualified representatives of National Mine Action Authorities (NMAAs) and Mine Action organisations to the NMAS Development training course from 4 to 9 November 2024. Learn more here.
• Throughout 2024, Switzerland will organise a series of events in support of mine action in Ukraine, culminating in the ministerial-level Ukraine Mine Action Conference, taking place on 17-18 October 2024 in Geneva. Read more here.

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