Mine Action Weekly, 8 - 14 July 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: Shifting the Status Quo: Challenges and Opportunities in Addressing the Needs of Population affected by Explosive Ordnance Contamination in Afghanistan

Humanity & Inclusion Armed Violence Reduction's study addresses the urgent need to integrate gender and diversity into humanitarian mine action in Afghanistan. It emphasises the importance of inclusive approaches to improve safety, efficiency, and community resilience in conflict-affected areas. Read more here.

???? Azerbaijan: ANAMA reports on mines, UXOs discovered in Azerbaijan's liberated areas

Between 1 and 7 July 2024, the Azerbaijan National Agency for Mine Action (ANAMA) has neutralised 28 anti-personnel mines, 107 anti-tank mines, and 830 unexploded ordnances (UXOs) in the liberated territories. An area of 1039.5 hectares was cleared of mines and UXOs.

???? Germany: Search for explosive ordnance in Planten un Blomen

The Munitions Clearance Service has discovered suspicious areas in Hamburg's Planten un Blomen Park based on aerial images. The park section between Messe, Dammtor and Marseiller Promenade will be closed from July 16-17 for further investigation, as announced by the District Office Mitte.

???? Palestine: I’ll be helping to clear unexploded bombs in Gaza, my home. But I dread what I will find there

The conflict in Gaza has left behind many unexploded bombs, posing severe risks to civilians. These hidden dangers complicate daily life and recovery efforts, highlighting the urgent need for comprehensive demining initiatives to ensure safety and rebuild the community.

???? Syria: Explosive Ordnance contamination survey in Northeast Syria, May 2024

3iSolution partnered with Folkekirkens N?dhj?lp (DanChurchAid), Handicap International - Humanity & Inclusion and ITF Enhancing Human Security to complete a contamination and impact survey in Northeast Syria. The May 2024 survey of NES highlights extensive contamination by explosive ordnance. It details the risks posed to local communities, impeding access to essential services and livelihoods. The survey underscores the urgent need for demining efforts to ensure safety and support regional recovery.

???? Ukraine: West Joins Ukrainian Race to Clear Mines

Western countries are aiding Ukraine in its efforts to clear landmines, essential for civilian safety and agricultural recovery. This collaborative initiative combines resources and expertise to address the extensive contamination caused by the conflict, aiming to accelerate demining operations and restore normalcy.

???? Ukraine: Farmers are allowed to apply for compensation for demining of agricultural land through a register

The Ukrainian government has launched a programme to compensate farmers for 80% of the costs of demining their agricultural land, allocating UAH 3 billion and providing farmers with an online tool to apply for the programme.

???? Ukraine: In 5 months of 2024, sappers returned more than 156 thsd ha of agricultural land to use in Ukraine

In the first half of 2024, sappers surveyed more than 171.7 thsd ha of agricultural land in Ukraine, scheduled for priority survey and demining. At the same time, more than 156.6 thsd ha have already been returned to farmers for economic use, according to Economy Minister Yulia Svyrydenko.

???? Ukraine: Use of Full Mine Action Toolbox Leads to Major Increase in Operational Efficiency and Results

Using the full mine action toolbox has significantly increased Norwegian People's Aid / Norsk Folkehjelp 's operational efficiency and results in Ukraine. This comprehensive approach has enhanced the effectiveness of demining operations, leading to safer and more rapid clearance of landmines and unexploded ordnance.

???? Ukraine: How Ukraine became the biggest minefield in the world

Ukraine has become the largest minefield in the world due to extensive use of landmines and unexploded ordnance from the ongoing conflict. The widespread contamination poses severe risks to civilians, complicating efforts for safe land use and reconstruction.

???? Ukraine: How AI is assisting demining operations in Ukraine

AI technology is aiding demining operations in Ukraine by improving the detection and mapping of landmines and unexploded ordnance. These advancements enhance safety and efficiency, helping deminers identify hazardous areas more accurately and effectively, thus facilitating quicker and safer clearance processes.

?? ???? Pletenchuk: There may be about 400 mines and explosives in Black Sea that washed away from Kakhovka HPP

An estimated 400 mines and explosives from the Dnipro River may have washed into the Black Sea following the destruction of the Kakhovka hydroelectric power plant. This number is approximate, and the actual count will be determined through demining operations, highlighting the long-term challenge of ensuring safety in the region.

?? ???? Ukraine plans to join NATO countries in demining the Black Sea

Five ships departed from Istanbul last week to conduct demining operations in the Black Sea. Currently, three NATO member countries are involved in this initiative, but Ukraine also plans to join the demining efforts.

Other EO Finds from Around the Globe:

• ???? Bulgaria: They destroyed an unexploded ordnance near Dimitrovgrad. Read more
• ???? Cambodia: Six mortar shells fished out of Battambang pond. Read more
• ???? Germany: Another World War bomb discovered in Saalekreis. Read more
• ???? United Kingdom: A27 alert after suspected unexploded bomb found. Read more
• ???? United Kingdom: Unexploded ordnance found at Assateague, lifeguards clear beach: Eyewitness. Read more
• ???? United Kingdom: Bournemouth: Bomb squad called to man's back garden. Read more

2. Explosive Ordnance Risk Education (EORE)

?? Reaching communities through digital risk education

MAG (Mines Advisory Group) is enhancing risk education through digital campaigns in Bosnia, Vietnam, Ukraine, and Iraq, using social media and innovative methods like geo-targeted ads and street art. These efforts aim to inform communities about landmines and unexploded ordnance, significantly improving safety and awareness.

3. Accidents, Survivors, Victim Assistance

???? Iran: Security Forces Killing Kurdish Border Couriers

Iranian security forces are killing Kurdish border couriers, known as Kulbars, transporting goods between Iran and Iraq. The couriers face dangers from landmines and violence from authorities, exacerbating their social and economic marginalization and highlighting the need for sustainable economic opportunities in border regions.

???? Philippines: 30 injured in failed ‘controlled explosion’ in Zamboanga City

A “controlled” detonation of unexploded fireworks went awry Monday afternoon, wounding 30 individuals, including 19 government security and safety personnel.

???? Ukraine: More than a thousand civilians injured by Russian mines: SBU prepares evidence for The Hague

More than a thousand civilians have been injured by explosive devices, including 297 deaths. Russia deliberately uses anti-personnel mines against the civilian population of Ukraine, violating international laws and customs of war. Therefore, the SBU is preparing an evidence base for The Hague on this massive use of mines by Russian forces.

???? United Kingdom: I lost three limbs and needed 10 ops on face after stepping on landmine at 18 – now my life’s taken another twist

Craig Wood, a British Army veteran who lost three limbs in Afghanistan due to a landmine explosion, is now preparing to sail solo from Mexico to Japan. He hopes to inspire other disabled individuals and veterans by demonstrating that significant challenges can be overcome.

Other EO Accidents from Around the Globe:

• ???? Afghanistan: Woman dead, 7 wounded in Wardak, Ghazni blasts. Read more
• ???? India: Landmine Blast Along LoC In Jammu And Kashmir's Rajouri, Search Operation Launched. Read more
• ???? Myanmar: Rohingya man killed, 2 Injured in landmine explosion during crab harvest in Naf River. Read more
• ???? Syria: Two regime soldiers killed by explosion of landmine in Deir Ezzor desert. Read more
• ???? Syria: Woman killed in landmine explosion in Manbij countryside. Read more
• ???? Syria: Four members of “Manbij Military Council” killed by landmine explosion in eastern Aleppo. Read more
• ???? Syria: Landmine explosion leaves three people dead and injured in eastern Hama countryside. Read more
• ???? Syria: Two members of “NDF” killed in explosion of landmine in Al-Sukhnah desert east of Homs. Read more
• ???? Syria: Regime soldier killed and another injured by explosion of old landmine in desert in eastern Deir Ezzor. Read more
• ???? Ukraine: Family with two children killed in Kharkiv Oblast by Russian landmine. Read more

4. Advocacy, Policy, Strategy and Standards

???? Lithuania's strategic shift: Reconsidering cluster munitions ban

Lithuania is reconsidering its position on the cluster munitions ban amid heightened regional security concerns. This strategic shift involves evaluating the benefits and risks of retaining or utilising cluster munitions, reflecting the complex security landscape in Eastern Europe.

???? Lithuania: Don’t Leave Global Ban on Cluster Munitions

Lithuania’s parliament should reject a government proposal to withdraw from the 2008 treaty banning cluster munitions, Human Rights Watch emphasised. If approved, Lithuania would be the first country to leave the Convention on Cluster Munitions, which 112 countries have ratified.

???? Lithuania: MAG Statement on Lithuania’s Intent to Withdraw from the Convention on Cluster Munitions

MAG (Mines Advisory Group) has issued a statement expressing concern over Lithuania's intent to withdraw from the Convention on Cluster Munitions. MAG emphasizes the humanitarian impact of such a decision and urges Lithuania to reconsider, highlighting the importance of international cooperation in banning cluster munitions to protect civilians.

???? Lithuania: The Cluster Munition Coalition is Outraged by Lithuania’s Plans to Leave the Convention on Cluster Munition: Urges Lithuania's Parliament to Reject the Proposal

Lithuania is set to withdraw from the 2008 Convention on Cluster Munitions despite the high humanitarian, legal, and political costs, said the Cluster Munition Coalition. The Coalition strongly urges Lithuania's Parliament to reject the proposal, emphasizing the grave implications of such a withdrawal. Read more here.

???? Myanmar: UN rights council condemns Myanmar abuses, urges immediate action

联合国儿童基金会 reports a surge in civilian casualties from landmines and unexploded ordnance in Myanmar, with 1,052 recorded in 2023, triple the previous year's figures. The UN Human Rights Council calls for immediate action to address these dangers and protect affected communities.

?? Environmental protection and climate change in mine action takes centre stage

The adoption of a new edition of the IMAS on environmental management and climate change in mine action introduces guidance for tailored national mine action standards and SOPs, along with environmental data collection and climate adaptation measures, are vital for the sector's progress. Read IMAS 07.13 Environmental management and climate change in mine action here.

?? Numerous countries submit Article 7 reports

In accordance with Article 7 of the Anti-Personnel Mine Ban Treaty, each State party is under obligation to report to the Secretary-General of the United Nations on various aspects of implementation. This information has to be updated by the States parties annually, and a large number of countries have submitted their reports in the past week.

5. Stockpile Destruction, PSSM and Disarmament

6. Research, Innovation, Technology and Market Trends

?? AWS high tech casts a Halo over landmines

The HALO Trust , supported by a $4 million investment from Amazon Web Services (AWS), is utilising AI, machine learning, and cloud computing to enhance demining operations. This technology aids in identifying and clearing landmines and unexploded ordnance in conflict zones such as Angola and Ukraine, significantly improving the efficiency and safety of these critical humanitarian efforts.

7. Mine Action Assistance, Funding and Cooperation

???? ???? Azerbaijan: Belgian Ministry of Foreign Affairs Funds APOPO’s Mine Clearance in Azerbaijan

The Belgian Ministry of Foreign Affairs has funded APOPO's mine clearance efforts in Azerbaijan, aiming to clear over 1.13 million square meters of land in the Karabakh region. This project enhances the safety and supports the return of internally displaced persons by using advanced methodologies and technical skills.

???? ???? Cambodia: Manet urges Japanese NGO to expand mine clearance in Kingdom

Prime Minister Hun Manet requested the Japan Mine Action Service (JMAS) to expand cooperation with demining operators in Cambodia, as the Kingdom vowed to clear more areas of UXO and ERW.

???? ???? ???? Cambodia, Ukraine: Japan announces mine assistance package for Kingdom, Ukraine

Japan will send heavy demining equipment to Ukraine this week, as a part of its humanitarian assistance to the war-torn European nation. Two demining initiatives were announced by Japanese Minister for Foreign Affairs Yoko Kamikawa during her July 5-6 visit to Cambodia. Ukrainian personnel are expected to receive training in Cambodia on the operation of the equipment, she explained during a visit to the Cambodian Mine Action Centre (CMAC).

???? ???? Cambodia: Ly Thuch Receives UNMAS Director for Peacekeeping Operations Ilene Cohn

Senior Minister Ly Thuch, First Vice President of the Mine Authority, met with Ms. Ilene Cohn, Director of the United Nations Mine Action Service (UNMAS) in charge of peacekeeping operations, at the Mine Authority office to discuss ongoing efforts.

???? ???? Colombian deminers attend training courses in Phnom Penh

Colombian deminers attended training courses in Phnom Penh, Cambodia, to enhance their skills in landmine clearance. This collaboration aims to improve demining operations in Colombia by learning advanced techniques and methodologies from Cambodian experts, fostering international cooperation in humanitarian mine action.

???? ???? ???? Lebanon, Mauritania, Zimbabwe: Getting to Completion: Funding Mine and Cluster Munition Clearance in Lebanon, Mauritania and Zimbabwe

This policy brief by the Peace Research Institute Oslo ( PRIO ) summarises data collected for Lebanon, Mauritania and Zimbabwe on budgets for clearing anti-personnel land mines and cluster munitions. This data has been collected for a pilot study funded by the Norwegian Ministry of Foreign Affairs , which focused on the collection of detailed and disaggregated data directly from clearance operators via a questionnaire.

???? ???? ???? Ukraine: UNDP and Belgium strengthen partnership for mine action in Ukraine

UNDP Ukraine has signed a financing agreement worth EUR 1 million with the Government of Belgium for the implementation of the UNDP’s Mine Action Project in Ukraine.

???? ???? Ukraine: Provision of Demining Machines to Ukraine

Japan's Ministry of Foreign Affairs announced the "Special Donation to the United Nations Voluntary Trust Fund for Assistance in Mine Action." This initiative aims to support demining activities, improve safety, and promote stability in conflict-affected regions by providing critical funding for mine action efforts.

???? ???? Ukraine: UN Establishes Ukraine Community Recovery Fund

The United Nations in Ukraine, in coordination with the government, has established a flexible Ukraine Community Recovery Fund (UCRF), which has already attracted $7.25 million for mine action.

???? ???? Yemen: KSrelief Renews Masam Project Contract to Clear Yemeni Territory of Mines

The King Salman Humanitarian Aid and Relief Center (KSrelief) has extended the contract for Project Masam, aimed at clearing Yemeni territory of mines, for another year, at a cost of $35,998,500.

Video

Bombs, torpedoes, artillery: 300,000 tons of World War II ammunition are eroding on the floor of the Baltic Sea. The toxic substances they contain are damaging the ecosystem. Attempts are now being made to recover the explosive devices (video in German).

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 next meeting of the Environmental Issues and Mine Action (EIMA) Working Group will feature Marie Schellens at PAX, and their new interactive map which showcases examples of Nature-based Solutions for Peace and Security. The meeting will be on 17 July 2024 from 14:00 – 15:00 CET. Learn more here.
• The Geneva International Centre for Humanitarian Demining (GICHD) Eastern Europe, Caucasus, and Central Asia Regional Cooperation Programme (EECCA RCP) is organising an EECCA Regional IMSMA Core Workshop from 10 to 11 September 2024 in Geneva, Switzerland. Learn more and register here.
• 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 Countering Explosive Threat and Demining Conference will be held on 24-25 September 2024 at the Copthorne Tara Hotel in London, UK. The event will feature experts discussing advancements in explosive threat mitigation and demining technology. Register here to secure your spot.
• 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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