The Government of the Slovak Republic and the Governemet of Estonia Provide Additional Contribution to UNMAS in Support of the Iraqi Mine Action Sector

Iraq is one of the most explosive ordnance contaminated countries in the world. According to data from the national mine action authorities, namely the Directorate for Mine Action (DMA) and the Iraqi Kurdistan Mine Action Agency (IKMAA), more than 2.7 square kilometers are contaminated with landmines, cluster munitions, improvised explosive devices, and other types of explosive remnants of war across Iraq (Federal Iraq and the Kurdistan Region of Iraq). Explosive ordnance poses a concern to public safety and restricts access to livelihood opportunities and infrastructure.

The additional funding will support the continuation of the clearance operations in the areas liberated from ISIL through its national mine action operators. Survey and clearance operations will contribute to enabling the safe and dignified return of internally displaced people, and will allow for development efforts to go forward. Furthermore, this contribution will also support UNMAS Iraq’s technical and advisory support to the DMA and IKMAA, as well as explosive ordnance risk education efforts delivered to raise awareness and protect civilians.  

Mr. Pehr Lodhammar, UNMAS Iraq, Chief Mine Action Programme, expressed his gratitude: “UNMAS Iraq deeply appreciates the generous contribution from the Government of the Slovak Republic and the Governemt of Estonia. This support enables us to continue assisting the DMA and IKMAA, as well as national operators in creating a safe environment free from explosive hazards for all Iraqis.”