Azerbaijan records 58 mine explosion victims in 2023 Report Reveals

In 2023, Azerbaijan witnessed a tragic toll of 58 individuals falling victim to mines and unexploded ordnance, as reported by the public association Azerbaijan Campaign to Ban Landmines.

These incidents highlight the ongoing threat posed by landmines in conflict-affected regions and the urgent need for concerted efforts to mitigate their impact on civilian populations, Caliber.Az reports.

According to the report, 19 people lost their lives due to mine explosions, while 39 others sustained injuries. All victims were male, underscoring the disproportionate impact of these indiscriminate weapons on men in the affected areas. The mine incidents occurred across several regions, including Aghdam, Khojavand, Tartar, Lachin, Shusha, Jabrayil, Kalbajar, Khojaly, Fuzuli, and Tovuz.

The toll of mine-related casualties highlights the severe humanitarian consequences of ongoing conflicts and the presence of landmines in Azerbaijan. Beyond the immediate loss of life and injuries, these incidents also have long-lasting effects on communities, hindering access to essential services, impeding economic development, and causing psychological trauma among affected individuals and families.

The report underscores the importance of continued efforts to address the threat of landmines and unexploded ordnance in Azerbaijan. This includes mine clearance operations, risk education initiatives to raise awareness among civilians about the dangers of mines, and victim assistance programs to support those affected by mine-related incidents.

Given the transnational nature of the landmine issue, international cooperation and assistance are essential in addressing the challenges posed by these deadly weapons. Azerbaijan's efforts to ban landmines and mitigate their impact align with broader international commitments under treaties such as the Ottawa Treaty, which seeks to eliminate the use, stockpiling, production, and transfer of anti-personnel mines.

The report of 58 mine-related casualties in Azerbaijan in 2023 serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing humanitarian crisis caused by Armenian-laid landmines and unexploded ordnance in conflict-affected regions. Urgent action is needed to prevent further loss of life, alleviate the suffering of affected communities, and work towards a mine-free future where civilians can live in safety and dignity.