Sectoral working group on mine action discussed new cooperation mechanisms

The development and expansion of the programme to compensate farmers for demining services on their land is one of the key priorities for the next year. Partners have expressed interest in the programme, which operates transparently and delivers results. This was announced by Deputy Minister of Economy Ihor Bezkaravainyi during the fifth meeting of the Sectoral Working Group on Humanitarian Demining.

The meeting brought together representatives of partner countries, international organisations, and Ukrainian government agencies to discuss the progress of humanitarian demining and priorities for 2025.

"We are focused on expanding the programme for compensating farmers for the cost of demining their agricultural land. This programme works transparently through the Prozorro system, ensures competitive pricing, and delivers real results — demined land is returned to farmers for productive use," said Ihor Bezkaravainyi.

Among the key priorities for 2025 are: expanding the coverage of the agricultural land demining compensation programme, attracting additional donor funding, developing the domestic demining equipment industry, and training new mine action specialists.

Partners at the meeting confirmed their readiness to continue supporting Ukraine's demining efforts. Several countries announced new commitments to finance humanitarian demining programmes.

"The transparency and effectiveness of the Ukrainian approach to organising humanitarian demining is exemplary. We see the results and are ready to increase our support," noted one of the international partners.

The Sectoral Working Group on Humanitarian Demining was established at the initiative of the Government of Ukraine to coordinate international support for mine action. It brings together all key partners, and meetings are held regularly to discuss progress, challenges, and priorities.