Syria faces a critical challenge in its post-conflict recovery as the urgent need for mine clearance becomes increasingly apparent. With over one million explosive devices littering the landscape since the onset of the civil war in 2011, the threat to civilian safety, especially for children, remains dire. Recent reports indicate that 10-30% of these explosives fail to detonate instantly, leading to tragic accidents and fatalities among the young population. UNICEF has labeled the situation as “alarming,” emphasizing the necessity for immediate international support and action to address this silent yet deadly crisis. As Syria embarks on its path to reconstruction, prioritizing mine clearance is essential to ensure a safer future for its citizens.
Q&A: The urgent need for Mine Clearance in Post-Conflict Syria
Editor: Today we’re discussing a pressing issue in Syria—the urgent need for mine clearance following the devastating civil war that began in 2011.With me is Dr. Layla Nasr,an expert in conflict recovery and humanitarian efforts.Dr. Nasr, can you explain the current situation regarding landmines and unexploded ordnance in Syria?
Dr. Nasr: Absolutely. Since the onset of the civil war, over one million explosive devices have been left behind in Syria. This situation poses an ongoing threat to civilian safety, notably affecting children who are often unaware of the dangers. Alarmingly, reports indicate that 10-30% of these explosives fail to detonate instantly, which leads to tragic accidents, including fatalities among young populations. UNICEF has flagged this as an urgent humanitarian crisis,highlighting the necessity for international support to address this deadly legacy of conflict.
Editor: that’s indeed distressing. What would you say are the immediate implications of this situation for Syria’s post-conflict recovery?
Dr. Nasr: The implications are significant. Without effective mine clearance, areas might remain unsafe for resettlement and development. This stagnation can hinder reconstruction efforts and delay the return of displaced populations who wish to return home. Additionally, the fear of explosive remnants greatly disrupts economic activities and prevents humanitarian organizations from providing essential services. Prioritizing mine clearance is vital not only for immediate safety but also for long-term stability and reconstruction.
Editor: In terms of practical steps, what can be done to address this crisis? How can the international community contribute?
Dr. Nasr: International support is critical for several reasons. First, funding for mine clearance operations is necessary, as these efforts require specialized knowledge, equipment, and personnel. NGOs specializing in mine action need resources to conduct assessments, clear contaminated lands, and educate local communities about mine risks. Alongside funding, political support is essential to ensure that these initiatives are prioritized in the broader context of Syria’s recovery strategy. Moreover, raising awareness in the global community about the situation can definitely help maintain pressure on local and international authorities to address the issue more vigorously.
Editor: What role do local communities play in the mine clearance process and in ensuring their own safety?
Dr. Nasr: Local communities are crucial. Their involvement in mine clearance can enhance the effectiveness of these programs, as they often have detailed knowledge of the history and layout of their environments. Community-based education initiatives can considerably reduce the risk of accidents by informing residents—especially children—about the dangers of unexploded ordnance. Empowering community members not only helps in identifying hazards but also fosters a sense of responsibility and ownership in the recovery process.
Editor: Are there prosperous examples from other regions that could serve as a model for Syria’s mine clearance efforts?
Dr. Nasr: Yes,there are several examples worldwide. As an example,in countries like Cambodia and Mozambique,complete mine action programs that included clearance,education,and community involvement have shown significant success. These nations have transformed hazardous environments into safe areas for resettlement and agricultural activities. Learning from these experiences,Syria can build a tailored approach by combining technical expertise with local input,which is essential for addressing its unique challenges.
Editor: Thank you, Dr. Nasr, for your insights into this critical issue. The need for immediate international support in mine clearance cannot be overstated,as it is fundamental for a safer future for the citizens of Syria.
Dr. Nasr: Thank you for shedding light on this urgent crisis. Addressing the mine problem is a necessary step towards achieving peace and stability in Syria.