 | The subject of Mine Clearance is one of critical importance that has recently taken center stage in the forum of pressing world issues. As regards the work of the United Nations, the process of demining is fundamental to the UN's ability to deliver programmes effectively in war-torn countries or post-war environments, whether such undertakings be related to peacekeeping, humanitarian assistance or rehabilitation. |
Over the past seven years, the need for mine clearance has grown significantly in a number of regions around the world. As a result, the UN is increasingly called upon to operate mine clearance programmes in areas that are completely infested with landmines and unexploded ordnance (UXO). Consequently, prior to any large deployment of personnel or equipment to a given area, the UN must prepare for a safe working environment by initiating preliminary mine clearance activities in localized areas. Once this has been completed, a broader operation can be accomodated to conduct mine clearance activities on a more comprehensive scale.
The clearance of areas for use by a supported nation is undertaken only when spefically mandated by the Security Council. It is standard procedure for the UN to not only perform mine clearance but also to assist a supported nation in the development of its own sustainable clearance capacity. The UN programme may include such topics as mine awareness, mine marking, mine survey, mine clearance as well as unexploded ordinance disposal. Additionally, the programme's overall efforts may go beyond mine-specific issues to cover related areas, such as management and logistics, training and support.
The UN may vary it's approach to each situation as there are currently no standardized templates or universal procedures established for mine clearance activities worldwide.
Mine Clearance in the United Nations is presently divided into two areas of responsibility :
The Demining Unit (Department of Peacekeeping Operations)
which plans and advises on mine clearing activities carried out under United Nations auspices as well as maintains contact with Governments and organisations that participate in or contribute to these activities.
The
Mine Clearance and Policy Unit (Department of Humanitarian Affairs)
which serves as the focal point for coordinating all humanitarian mine clearance and related activities.
These two units work together to ensure a seamless approach to United Nations Mine Clearance Activities.
Click
here to see the role and function of the Demining Unit, DPKO
Click
here to see frequently asked questions.
Click
here to access the UN Land mine database.
Click
here to see how you can help.
The Demining Unit E-mail Address is: mineclearance@un.org
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