The Government of Sweden extends its support to explosive hazards management and national mine action capability enhancement activities in Iraq

Iraq is one of the most EO 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. Explosive ordnance poses a concern to public safety and restricts access to livelihood opportunities and infrastructure.

UNMAS Iraq works in close coordination with the Government of Iraq mine action authorities to alleviate the impact of explosive ordnance and enable access to productive land. Furthermore, UNMAS Iraq contributes to building sustainable national capacity to implement survey and clearance operations. The additional funding, will allow UNMAS to implement survey and clearance of explosive hazards left from the war with the Islamic State in Iraq and the Levant (ISIL), and deliver explosive ordnance risk education to children and vulnerable communities in Ninewa Governorate. Operations are led by Iraqi mine action teams trained during the last three years to conduct mine action activities independently. 

“The demining work in Iraq continues to be a priority for improving safety and development. The efforts of UNMAS continue to support the return of displaced people to their homes, and at the same time increases the awareness of the risks and danger of explosive ordnance” says Ms. Petra Smitmanis Dry, Head of the Iraq Unit at Sida. 

“UNMAS Iraq would like to thank the Government of Sweden for its consistent and longstanding support to mine action in Iraq. With this additional funding, the endeavors to protect Iraqis from unexploded ordnance will continue, allowing for safe and dignified returns and safe access to agricultural areas. Furthermore, UNMAS will continue to support Iraqi mine action stakeholders to ensure, and promote a sustainable and localized mine action response” stated Pehr Lodhammar, UNMAS Iraq Chief Mine Action Programme.