Unexploded Mines from the 1970s Continue to Endanger Afghan Children

In Afghanistan, unexploded mines from the 1970s Soviet invasion continue to claim lives, with nearly 900 people killed or wounded by leftover munitions from January 2023 to April this year alone. A staggering 82% of those affected were children, many of whom were playing when they encountered these deadly remnants of war.

Despite the Taliban government's supportive stance on demining efforts, the issue remains largely unaddressed. Nick Pond, head of the Mine Action Section of UNAMA, stated, "It is almost impossible at the moment to predict what the scale of current contamination is." The lack of funds has significantly hampered demining operations, with the workforce shrinking from 15,500 people in 2011 to just 3,000 currently.

Why this matters: The issue of unexploded mines in Afghanistan has significant implications for global peace and security, as it affects not only the local population but also international efforts to stabilize the region. If left unaddressed, this problem could lead to further loss of life, displacement, and instability in the region.

The village of Nokordak recently experienced the devastating impact of unexploded ordnance when two children lost their lives in late April. Shawoo, a mother who lost her 14-year-old son Javid, recounted the tragic incident: "He threw a stone at it. He hit it once, then a second time. The third time, the device exploded. The boy died almost instantly."

In another incident, 13-year-old Sayed showed his wounded hand and foot after an explosion in late April that killed his brother Taha, 11, while they were tending their sheep. Sayed's father, Siraj Ahmad, lamented, "Tomorrow someone else's son could be killed or handicapped for the rest of their life."

The deminers' efforts are painstaking and slow, hindered by a lack of resources. Organizations like the British-based Halo Trust are working tirelessly to clear the mines, but the process is heavily dependent on donations. Mohammad Hassan, headmaster of a small school in the Deh Qazi hamlet, emphasized the importance of demining, stating, "Even the schoolyard is dangerous for the children because it is not cleared of mines. We can't even plant trees here. If we dig, if we bring a tractor or machines to work here, it is really dangerous."

Children in Afghanistan are often drawn to mines and ordnance, which can resemble playthings. The Soviet-era butterfly mine, PFM-1, with its winged shape, is particularly attractive to children. Nick Pond warned, "Mines and ordnance can look like playthings to children."

The situation highlights the urgent need for increased funding and support for demining efforts in Afghanistan to prevent further tragedies. While deminers continue their hazardous work, the international community's support is vital in ensuring that these deadly remnants of past conflicts no longer pose a threat to innocent lives.

Key Takeaways

• Nearly 900 people killed or wounded by unexploded mines in Afghanistan from Jan-Apr 2023.
• 82% of victims were children, many playing when they encountered deadly remnants of war.
• Lack of funds hampers demining efforts, with workforce shrinking from 15,500 to 3,000.
• Unaddressed, this issue could lead to further loss of life, displacement, and instability.
• Increased funding and support are urgently needed to prevent further tragedies.