Safe Future Starts Here: UNMAS and UNICEF Call for Urgent Action to Protect Iraq’s Children from Landmine Threats

“The mission of the United Nations Mine Action Service in Iraq is to promote safety and to provide opportunities for stability and sustainable development. UNMAS will continue to support the Government of Iraq and the Directorate for Mine Action in addressing the explosive ordnance contamination and will spare no effort to pave the way for a safe and dignified return of Iraqi displaced people and productive use of the land,” said Mr. Pehr Lodhammar, Chief of Mine Action Programme of UNMAS in Iraq.

Despite concerted efforts by national and international organizations, Iraq still faces significant dangers from explosive ordnance. More than 2,700 square kilometers of land remain contaminated, threatening lives, hampering economic growth, limiting safe access to education and livelihoods, and preventing displaced communities from returning home safely.

Ms. Sandra Lattouf, UNICEF Representative in Iraq emphasized the urgent need for action: "Every child has the right to a safe and secure childhood—free from the threat of landmines and explosive remnants of war. These hidden dangers not only endanger lives but also deprive children of their rights to play, learn, and thrive.”

On the International Day for Mine Awareness and Assistance in Mine Action, UNMAS and UNICEF call for urgent action to protect the lives of Iraq’s most vulnerable populations, especially children, from the deadly threats posed by landmines. They reaffirm their commitment to working alongside the Government of Iraq to accelerate mine action efforts, expand risk education programmes, and strengthen protective measures —ensuring a safer, more secure future for Iraq’s children.

For more information, please contact:

Mr. Ralph Al-Hage, Chief of Communications, Advocacy and Partnerships, UNICEF in Iraq, Email: relhage@unicef.org

Pehr Lodhammar, UNMAS Chief Mine Action Programme, Iraq lodhammar@un.org