Every year on April 4th, the world observes the International Day for Mine Awareness. This significant day serves as a reminder of the devastating impact landmines and explosive remnants of war have on communities worldwide, while also highlighting ongoing efforts towards their eradication and the rehabilitation of affected individuals and areas.
Landmines and explosive remnants of war represent a persistent threat to civilians in conflict-affected regions long after the cessation of hostilities. These insidious weapons indiscriminately maim and kill, often targeting innocent civilians, including women and children. Moreover, they obstruct post-conflict recovery and development efforts by rendering vast swathes of land unusable for agriculture, infrastructure development, or resettlement.
The International Day for Mine Awareness and Assistance in Mine Action is observed on April 4, annually to raise public attention towards mine action activities, the land mines, its threats to the safety of mankind and how to work towards its elimination. Mining materials pose a major threat to the health, lives and safety of the people. United Nations-supported platforms, like every year on this day, organise and carry out initiatives to reduce the threat caused by mines and explosives. As per UN, on an average, one person is killed or injured by such explosive devices every hour. It also have an impact on children.
International Mine Awareness Day: History
The history of International Mine Awareness Day can be traced back to 1980 when the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) first proposed the idea of a day to raise awareness about the dangers of landmines. In 2005, the United Nations General Assembly officially designated 4 April as the International Day for Mine Awareness and Assistance in Mine Action. The idea for an International Mine Awareness Day was first proposed in 1980 by the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC).
The ICRC had been working to raise awareness of the dangers of landmines since the late 1970s, and it believed that a dedicated day would help to bring the issue to the attention of the international community. The ICRC's proposal was endorsed by the United Nations General Assembly in 1982, and the first International Mine Awareness Day was held on 4 April 1983. Since then, International Mine Awareness Day has been commemorated around the world with a variety of events and activities. These events aim to raise awareness of the dangers of landmines and other explosive remnants of war, and to promote the protection of civilians from these weapons.
International Mine Awareness Day 2024: Theme
The theme for International Day for Mine Awareness & Assistance in Mine Action 2024 is 'Protecting Lives, Building Peace.'
The 2024 International Day for Mine Awareness and Assistant in Mine Action on April 4 will focus on the survivors of the explosive hazards with disabilities and the ones living with disabilities in conflict.
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International Mine Awareness Day 2024: Significance
According to UNMAS, more than 61 countries are still at risk of landmine contamination, and millions of people around the world are impacted by the effects of landmines, including injuries, deaths, and social and economic upheaval. The use of landmines has also been linked to increased gender and maternal mortality, as well as reduced productivity and economic growth.
On this International Day for Mine Awareness and Assistance in Mine Action, UNMAS reaffirms its call for urgent action to address the global mine crisis. The United Nations urges Member States and all other stakeholders to take concrete measures to prevent and address explosive ordnance threats during and after armed conflicts, and to support the victims of landmine violence and to ensure their full access to assistance and protection.
In addition to mine clearance, the International Day for Mine Awareness underscores the importance of providing assistance to survivors. Survivors of landmine accidents often face significant physical, psychological, and socioeconomic challenges. Access to quality healthcare, rehabilitation services, vocational training, and social support networks are essential for their recovery and inclusion in society.
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The United Nations plays a central role in coordinating international efforts to address the threat of landmines and explosive remnants of war. The Mine Action Service (UNMAS) works in partnership with governments, NGOs, and other stakeholders to support mine action programs worldwide. Through advocacy, technical assistance, and capacity-building initiatives, UNMAS contributes to the prevention of new mine casualties, the clearance of contaminated areas, and the support of affected communities.
On the International Day for Mine Awareness, let us reaffirm our commitment to building a world free from the threat of landmines and explosive remnants of war. By raising awareness, supporting mine action efforts, and standing in solidarity with survivors, we can contribute to the creation of safer, more resilient communities for generations to come. Together, we can ensure that no one is left behind in the journey towards peace, security, and sustainable development.
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