Vladanka Andreeva: Necessary to coordinate efforts to speed up demining in Azerbaijan

“Until these areas are cleared of landmines, the safe return of internally displaced people remains impossible,” Vladanka Andreeva, UN Resident Coordinator in Azerbaijan, said at the 2nd International Conference on “Mine Action – the Path to Reaching SDGs,” Report informs.

“As most of the conference participants are aware, it can cost as little as 1 dollar to make a landmine, but more than a thousand dollars to safely remove one.

These explosive hazards are threatening the safety, health, well-being, lives and livelihoods of generations of people in over 60 countries.

The most vulnerable, including women and children, are the most affected.

According to the Landmine Monitor Report 2022, a staggering number of 5,544 individuals lost their lives or sustained injuries due to these hazardous devices in the year 2021 alone.

In the context of Azerbaijan, the grim reality is disheartening.

Since 1991, a total of 3,377 people, including 358 children and 38 women, have tragically fallen victim to landmines. Just within the past two years, 55 precious lives have been lost, and an additional 244 individuals have been severely injured,” Andreeva said.

“Until these areas are cleared of landmines, the safe return of internally displaced people remains impossible. Moreover, the construction of essential infrastructure, the development of roads, and the cultivation of farmland are all impeded, “ the UN resident coordinator added.

“These facts shed light on the critical need for concerted efforts and resources, to accelerate humanitarian demining activities in Azerbaijan.”