According to a report released on the International Day of Mine Awareness and Assistance, there were 1,052 verified civilian casualties from landmine and ERW incidents in 2023. This figure represents a nearly threefold increase compared to the 390 casualties recorded in 2022. 

UNICEF's Regional Director for East Asia and the Pacific, Debora Comini, condemned the use of landmines, highlighting their indiscriminate nature and potential violation of international law. 

"It is imperative," Comini stressed, "that all parties to the conflict prioritize the safety and well-being of civilians, particularly children, and take immediate steps to halt the use of these indiscriminate weapons."

The report emphasizes the heightened vulnerability of children.  Their inability to recognize landmines and lack of awareness about the dangers they pose place them at significant risk.  The widespread deployment of these weapons throughout Myanmar means children can encounter them in their everyday lives – near their homes, schools, playgrounds, and even farms.

The intensifying conflict in Myanmar is a major factor in the increase of landmine casualties. The report indicates that nearly all states and regions, excluding the capital Naypyitaw, are now contaminated with landmines. This places Myanmar among the most heavily affected countries in the world.

UNICEF has reached over 138,855 people, including children, with interventions aimed at preventing landmine casualties and assisting survivors.

In response to the worsening crisis, UNICEF is appealing for $208.3 million in 2024. These funds will be used to provide critical humanitarian aid and services to 3.1 million children and families most affected by the conflict. (ILKHA)