4 April is Mine Action Day; an opportunity to reflect on the terrible toll that mines and explosive remnants of war have on millions around the world. Every year they are responsible for 15,000 to 20,000 deaths and countless injuries worldwide.

Not only do these war left-overs pose a health and safety risk - they impede economic growth by preventing people from using land; undermine the achievement of the Millennium Development Goals; and in some places, they can stop refugees and displaced people from returning home.

Find out how UNDP is working to reduce this menace in over 40 countries by clearing mines and explosive remnants of war; mine risk education; stockpile destruction; advocacy; and victim assistance.

UNDP works to address armed violence as a way to build durable foundations for sustainable development and contribute to the achievement of the Millennium Development Goals. At the global level, and in partnership with other UN agencies, UNDP ensures that voices from affected countries and civil society are heard in international policy fora. UNDP has long-supported the development and implementation of international instruments including the Convention on Cluster Munitions, the Mine Ban Treaty, and the Geneva Declaration on Armed Violence and Development.

At the national level, UNDP supports governments and civil society across the globe to strengthen controls over small arms and light weapons; to sustainably prevent armed violence; to address the manifold problems posed by anti-personnel mines; and to support the prohibition of the use, transfer and stockpiling of cluster munitions.