The Government of Denmark Provides Additional Contribution to UNMAS in Support of the Mine Action Sector in Iraq

Iraq is one of the most explosive ordnance contaminated countries in the world. According to data from the national mine action authorities, more than 2.700 square kilometers are contaminated with landmines, cluster munitions, improvised explosive devices, and other types of explosive remnants of war. EO poses a concern to public safety and restricts access to livelihood opportunities and infrastructure.

The generous contribution from the Government of Denmark will enable UNMAS Iraq to continue the support to national mine action operators and the GoI towards building a sustainable and well-coordinated mine action sector in Iraq. UNMAS Iraq works to support the nationalization of mine action response in implementing and managing survey and clearance operations, as well as explosive ordnance risk education activities in the most devastated and vulnerable locations in Iraq.  

Furthermore, through this contribution, UNMAS Iraq will continue to support GoI national authorities in strengthening the federal response to EO contamination in the areas liberated from ISIL through technical and advisory support to effectively lead and coordinate the mine action sector.

“UNMAS Iraq is grateful for the generous contribution from the Government of Denmark. This additional funding will allow UNMAS to continue to support the Government of Iraq mine action authorities and national partners to operate autonomously and independently, as part of a strong and well coordinated mine action sector. In addition, it will allow UNMAS to support safe and dignified returns for IDPs.” said Pehr Lodhammar, UNMAS Chief Mine Action Programme.