Two million mines gone for good

HALO was established in 1988 in response to the devastating human toll of landmines in Afghanistan following the Soviet withdrawal. Over the last 35 years, we have cleared landmines from 29 countries and territories, including Angola where Princess Diana was filmed in a minefield in 1997. The Princess championed the banning of landmines, and the Ottawa Treaty was signed later that year. Today we mark a major milestone – 2 million mines cleared for good.

HALO employs over 11,500 staff around the world – many of them clearing their own communities of the deadly legacy of conflict. We estimate that their dedication has saved the lives of 2 million people and enabled over 10 million people to have safer access to schools, health clinics and farming land – ensuring children can reach class without walking through a minefield and parents can put food on the table.

This 2 million milestone brings the levels of mine contamination in Ukraine into sharp focus. Ukraine is suffering from the heaviest landmine and unexploded ordnance (UXO) contamination in Europe since World War 2. Estimates suggest there could be over 2 million landmines in the country, putting approximately 6 million people at risk and significantly restricting access to agricultural land which, in turn, limits grain production.

James Cowan, HALO CEO, said:

"Clearing two million mines is a major achievement, but there is still a mountain to climb. We are witnessing a new age of mine laying in Ukraine and Yemen, while people in Afghanistan, Somalia and Zimbabwe are living cheek by jowl with the long-term legacy of historic conflicts. With increased funding, HALO could clear even more weapons and save more lives."

Over the past 12 months, HALO has expanded rapidly in Ukraine, where it uses technologies, equipment, and devices it has trialed in various locations, including drones, ground-penetrating radar, and remote-controlled machinery. In Ukraine, and across the world our staff will continue our mission to support protect the lives and restore the livelihoods of those affected by conflict.

Thank you to all our donors, who have enabled us to reach this milestone and continue to support our life-saving work.