Ukraine develops comprehensive mine contamination survey methodology
June 28, 2024
The Government has approved the National Mine Action Strategy and the operational plan for its implementation for the first 3 years. The strategy sets the goal of returning 80% of potentially contaminated lands to productive use within 10 years.
"The adoption of the National Strategy is a historic step. For the first time, Ukraine has a comprehensive strategic document that defines goals, priorities, and mechanisms for clearing the country of mines and explosive ordnance. The 10-year strategy is complemented by a 3-year operational plan with specific tasks and responsible agencies," said Yuliia Svyrydenko, First Deputy Prime Minister — Minister of Economy of Ukraine.
The strategy covers all key aspects of mine action: non-technical survey, technical survey, clearance, mine risk education, victim assistance, advocacy, and international cooperation. Each dimension has specific indicators and targets.
"The strategy is based on a risk-based approach — we direct resources first to where the threat to people and the economy is highest. This is the agricultural land that needs to be returned to farmers, the infrastructure that needs to be rebuilt, and the communities that need to be made safe for living," explained Ihor Bezkaravainyi, Deputy Minister of Economy, Environment and Agriculture of Ukraine.
The operational plan for the first 3 years contains 57 tasks distributed among responsible agencies. It provides for a significant increase in the number of mine action operators, sappers, and heavy demining machines.
"International partners actively participated in the development of the strategy, which ensures its alignment with the best world practices and donor priorities. The strategy has been welcomed by all key partners," noted the Deputy Minister.
The adoption of the strategy was one of the conditions for increasing international support for humanitarian demining in Ukraine. It demonstrates a systematic approach and clear priorities, which facilitates the coordination of donor assistance.
