Roccasalvo: UNDP to focus on integrating innovative technologies into mine action in Karabakh

The cooperation between the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and the Azerbaijan National Agency for Mine Action (ANAMA) plays an important role in ensuring security in Karabakh. Joint efforts are aimed at clearing the territory of mines and explosive objects, which is critically important for the return of Azerbaijanis who were once expelled from here.

This cooperation also contributes to the development of agriculture and infrastructure and serves to improve the quality of life in affected areas. Relatively recently, UNDP and ANAMA signed a declaration of intent to establish a Center of Excellence for Demining in Azerbaijan.

In an interview with Report, Resident Representative of the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in Azerbaijan Alessandra Roccasalvo, spoke about the future activities of this Center, the impact of demining on achieving the SDGs, the consequences of Armenia's refusal to provide accurate maps of minefields to Azerbaijan, and other topics.

- Could you, please, elaborate on the role and activities of the Centre of Excellence and Training for Mine Action in relation to demining efforts in Azerbaijan?

- The Centre of Excellence and Training for Mine Action will promote best practises, innovation, safety, and efficiency by providing training, capacity-building, and technical support to national and regional demining institutions. By building local expertise, Azerbaijan will be well-equipped to address large-scale contamination and even assist other countries.

- In your opinion, what additional resources or support are needed to achieve long-term mine action goals in Azerbaijan?

- Sustained financial investment, advanced technical equipment, and enhanced training programmes supported by international partners and donors are essential to long-term mine action in Azerbaijan. With innovative technologies, such as drones, mechanical demining, artificial intelligence, and satellite imagery, demining operations can significantly improve. Investing in community engagement and education on mine risks also plays a vital role.

- How important is demining for achieving the Sustainable Development Goals?

- The achievement of many SDGs depends on the effectiveness of mine action. Clearing contaminated lands, supporting victims, and educating people on the risks means people can go home, go back to work and to their farms, that their children are safe, and that women and girls are empowered.

- How do you assess the impact of the lack of accurate minefield maps?

- The absence of accurate minefield maps poses significant challenges to demining efforts, leading to increased risks for deminers and civilians. It hampers the efficiency and speed of mine clearance operations, prolonging the danger and preventing the safe return of displaced persons. The lack of maps also escalates the costs and resources required for demining, impeding socio-economic recovery and development in affected areas. At UNDP, we strongly encourage cooperation and collaboration in the field of information exchange on the location of mines/ERW and the identification of affected.

- What new projects are anticipated between UNDP and ANAMA in the near future?

- UNDP and ANAMA are expected to focus on expanding demining operations, enhancing capacity-building initiatives, and integrating innovative technologies into mine action. Joint efforts will include community engagement programmes, risk education campaigns, and the development of sustainable livelihoods in mine-affected areas. Strengthening data management and information systems to improve the coordination and effectiveness of demining activities is also anticipated.