Faster return to the use of land cultivated despite contamination risks
February 12, 2026
Faster return to the use of lands that are cultivated despite contamination risks: the Government has adopted the necessary resolution. The resolution creates a mechanism for the priority survey and clearance of agricultural land that farmers continue to cultivate despite the risk of contamination.
"Many farmers in de-occupied territories continue to work their land despite the potential presence of explosive ordnance. They face a choice between safety and livelihood. This resolution gives them a path to safety — their lands will be prioritised for survey and clearance," said Ihor Bezkaravainyi, Deputy Minister of Economy, Environment and Agriculture of Ukraine.
The resolution provides for an accelerated procedure for non-technical survey of such lands, followed by technical survey and clearance where contamination is confirmed.
"We understand the reality — people cannot simply stop farming and wait for demining. They need to feed their families and earn a living. Our task is to ensure their safety as quickly as possible," explained the Deputy Minister.
The mechanism is designed to work in coordination with regional administrations, the Centre for Humanitarian Demining, and mine action operators. Farmers can report that they are cultivating potentially contaminated land, and their plots will be prioritised for survey.
"This resolution bridges the gap between the ideal scenario — where all land is cleared before any use — and the reality where people continue to work on potentially dangerous land. It is a pragmatic and humane approach," noted Bezkaravainyi.
The resolution is expected to significantly increase the number of applications for demining and accelerate the return of agricultural land to safe use.
