The Deadly Threat Below: Euronews Investigates Azerbaijan’s Landmine Crisis
Euronews Report Highlights Landmine Issue in Europe, Particularly in Azerbaijan
Euronews recently aired a report shining a spotlight on the landmine issue in Europe, with a special focus on Azerbaijan. The segment was broadcast in conjunction with the International Day for Mine Awareness and Assistance in Mine Action, drawing attention to the ongoing challenges posed by landmines in various European countries.
The report specifically highlighted the impact of conflicts in Azerbaijan, Bosnia and Herzegovina, and Ukraine, where landmines continue to threaten the lives of civilians. Hasanali Aliyev, a landmine victim, shared his harrowing experience in the report, recounting how he lost his leg at the age of 23 due to a landmine explosion.
According to the United Nations, a person dies or is injured by a landmine every hour on average worldwide, with children and young people often bearing the brunt of these incidents. The report underscored the importance of raising public awareness about the dangers of landmines and the need for continued efforts in demining.
Azerbaijan’s National Agency for Mine Action (ANAMA) was featured in the report, highlighting the government’s active engagement in demining activities and awareness campaigns. The head of ANAMA’s methodology and training department emphasized that efficient mine clearance, along with the reconstruction of liberated territories, presents a long-term challenge for the country.
Experts cited in the report estimated that up to 10 million landmines may be planted across 64 countries, with an additional 2 to 5 million devices being laid each year. The footage emphasized the importance of ongoing awareness efforts, particularly for civilians living in war-affected regions like those impacted by landmines, such as Hasanali Aliyev.
Overall, the report shed light on the pressing issue of landmines in Europe and the efforts being made to address this challenge, underscoring the need for continued international cooperation and support in mine clearance and awareness initiatives.
