09:30, 04 April 2025
Words by Cheyanne Bryan, Editorial and Campaign Marketing Executive, London
Did you know landmines are still being used as a weapon in war?
On the International Day for Mine Awareness and Assistance in Mine Action, also shortened to International Mine Awareness Day, we are reminded of the devastating impact that landmines (not cave mines) continue to have on communities worldwide.
Despite global efforts to eliminate these deadly remnants of conflict, mines still pose a significant threat to human life, the environment, and long-term stability in affected regions.
The use of mines in war and conflict zones has long-lasting and far-reaching consequences. While they are designed to be tools of warfare, landmines often outlast the cessation of conflict, creating an ongoing danger for civilians long after the guns have fallen silent. These devices can remain hidden for years, causing deaths and injuries, particularly among children and farmers. Their presence forces communities to abandon land that would otherwise be vital for agriculture or rebuilding, perpetuating poverty and instability.
The environmental impact is equally severe. Mines contaminate land, forests, and water sources, making ecosystems unsafe for both wildlife and humans. They disrupt the natural environment, slow down post-conflict recovery, and prevent communities from reclaiming their land.
With Russia’s extensive usage of landmines since 2022, has resulted in devastating impacts to the natural environment in Ukraine. In areas already struggling with war-torn infrastructure, the recovery from the environmental damage caused by landmines can take decades and is incredibly expensive.
In response to the humanitarian crisis caused by landmines, the Ottawa Treaty, also known as the Mine Ban Treaty, was established in 1997. The treaty, which has been ratified by 164 countries, aims to ban the use, stockpiling, production, and transfer of anti-personnel mines and calls for the destruction of existing stockpiles. Its goal is to make the world free of landmines, and while significant progress has been made, challenges remain.
Despite the treaty’s success in reducing global mine usage, several countries have not signed or have recently resumed using landmines in conflict. In 2020 and beyond, some states, including Russia, Syria, and Myanmar, have been reported to use or deploy landmines, undermining international efforts and putting civilians at continued risk. This highlights the need for persistent global cooperation to address this persistent threat and ensure that the international community holds violators accountable.
Various organisations and initiatives are dedicated to clearing landmines and supporting communities affected by these devices. Playing a leading role, The United Nations Mine Action Service (UNMAS) coordinates international mine clearance efforts, while the International Campaign to Ban Landmines (ICBL) continues to advocate for global disarmament and victim assistance.
Humanitarian organisations such as the Halo Trust and Mines Advisory Group (MAG) work on the ground in affected countries, providing both technical expertise and direct assistance in removing mines, educating local populations, and supporting survivors with medical care and rehabilitation.
Through these efforts, along with increased awareness and funding, significant progress is being made, but the work remains crucial in creating a safer world for millions of people still living in mine-affected regions.
At Smiley Movement, we like to elevate the work of charities across the world. Here are three charities whose causes align with the themes in this article.
International Campaign to Ban Landmines (ICBL). This is a global network of organisations working to ban the use of landmines and assist victims. ICBL played a key role in advocating for the Ottawa Treaty. Find out more.
Halo Trust. This is one of the world’s largest and most respected organisations dedicated to clearing landmines and providing support to communities affected by conflict. Learn more here.
Mines Advisory Group (MAG). This UK-based charity focuses on clearing landmines, unexploded ordnance, and other explosive remnants of war, helping communities rebuild their lives and regain access to land. Support them here.
This article aligns with the UN Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions.
Header image credited to UNMAS DRC from https://www.un.org/en/observances/mine-awareness-day
