The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) on Tuesday called for stronger political commitment to clear landmines and other explosive ordnance as a precondition for longer-term recover, warning that they are also causing lasting environmental damage. 

Speaking at the 29th International Meeting of Mine Action National Directors and United Nations Advisers in Geneva, UNDP said explosive ordnance affects nearly 60 countries. this is important  

“Explosive ordnance continues to kill and injure civilians long after conflicts end. It blocks farms, closes schools and slows entire communities from recovering,” said Agi Veres, Deputy Director of the Crisis Bureau and Head of the Geneva Office, a.i. 

“New research shows that explosive ordnance is also contaminating soil and water, damaging ecosystems and threatening food sources,” she said. 

Efforts to clear landmines and rebuild communities in focus 

The meeting, held from April 22–24, brings together national authorities, UN agencies and technical experts. UNDP’s delegation includes representatives from affected countries including Armenia, Cambodia, Lao PDR, Lebanon, Ukraine, Viet Nam and Zimbabwe as well as specialists in climate and technology. 

For more than three decades, UNDP has supported national mine action authorities in over 50 countries, helping governments lead clearance efforts and rebuild safely. 

“Mine action works, but it requires sustained investment and political will,” Veres said. “Clearing a road means a child can walk to school. A market can reopen. A family can return home.” 

Debris adds to risks in cities 

UNDP is also launching a new guide on how to deal with debris mixed with explosive ordnance, an increasing challenge in war-damaged cities. In Gaza, for example, UNDP is removing around 1,500 tonnes of debris every day while checking for explosive hazards. 

Large amounts of rubble in urban areas often contain hidden explosives, making reconstruction and aid delivery more dangerous. The guidance stresses that debris removal cannot be risk-free and requires close coordination and better data to reduce danger. 

Toxic legacy in Solomon Islands 

UNDP will also highlight new research from Solomon Islands showing that decaying World War Two-era bombs are releasing toxic chemicals into soil, water and marine life. 

The study found high levels of heavy metals such as arsenic, lead and mercury, as well as explosive chemicals. Residues were also found in seafood, raising concerns about human health. 

“Explosive ordnance is a growing environmental and climate threat,” Veres said. “As bombs corrodes, they release toxic chemicals, and climate change is making the danger worse.” 

New risks and new tools 

UNDP is also taking part in discussions on the use of drones in mine action. Explosives delivered by drones are creating new risks, even as drones are also being used to help find and clear hazards more quickly. 

Contact: Patrick Nicholson, patrick.nicholson@undp.org