International Mine Action Day: Ukraine's achievements and challenges
February 17, 2025
The Ministry of Economy is launching a coordination platform for innovation in humanitarian demining. The platform is designed to consolidate efforts of government, international organisations, the private sector, and the research community in developing and implementing new technologies for mine action.
"Innovation is a key factor in accelerating humanitarian demining. We have created a platform that brings together all stakeholders — from startups developing drones to international organisations funding pilot projects. The goal is to ensure that the best technological solutions reach the field as quickly as possible," said Ihor Bezkaravainyi, Deputy Minister of Economy, Environment and Agriculture of Ukraine.
The platform will operate in several key areas: identification and evaluation of innovative technologies, organisation of testing at specialised testing grounds, development of standards and methodologies for using new equipment, and facilitation of connections between developers and mine action operators.
"Ukraine has become a global testing ground for innovation in mine action. Dozens of companies and research groups from around the world are offering their technologies for testing in real conditions. The platform will help systematise this process and ensure that the most promising solutions are scaled up," noted the Deputy Minister.
The platform is being created with the support of UNDP, GICHD, and other international partners. An advisory board is being formed that includes experts in technology, mine action, and innovation management.
Among the priority technology areas: unmanned aerial systems for survey, artificial intelligence for mine detection, robotic platforms for clearance, and sensor technologies for underground object identification.
"We are open to cooperation with all developers and organisations that can contribute to making humanitarian demining faster, safer, and more efficient. The platform is a space for dialogue, testing, and scaling innovation," emphasised Bezkaravainyi.
