Euronews spotlight on Azerbaijan’s landmine crisis: A dangerous legacy VIDEO

Euronews has aired a compelling report on the landmine crisis across Europe, shining a significant spotlight on Azerbaijan’s struggle with the deadly remnants of conflict.

The feature comes on the heels of the International Day for Mine Awareness, a timely reminder of the perilous impact that landmines continue to have on civilian life, Caliber.Az reports.

While the issue spans several countries, the report dedicates considerable focus to Azerbaijan, highlighting the devastating consequences of unexploded ordnance.

In the piece, Hasanali Aliyev, a victim of a landmine blast, shares his harrowing experience. "I was 23 years old when I stepped on a mine," Aliyev recalls. His life was forever altered, as the explosion resulted in the amputation of his leg.

The UN warns that, globally, someone is killed or injured by a landmine every hour. Tragically, many of these victims are children and young people. The report emphasizes that the world continues to grapple with the legacy of landmines from past conflicts, with Europe no exception.

In Azerbaijan, the mine problem has roots in the nearly 30-year occupation of its territories. Following the conflict, the presence of landmines has severely hindered reconstruction and delayed the return of displaced families. The Azerbaijani government is committed to addressing this danger, with an active demining program and a focus on raising public awareness.

"We are working to clear mines as quickly as possible, but the reconstruction of liberated areas takes time," explained a representative from Azerbaijan's Mine Action Agency (ANAMA). "The process of mine clearance is a long and difficult journey."

The report stresses the urgent need to continue educating civilians, especially those in post-war regions like the area where Hasanali Aliyev lives. His story serves as a stark reminder of the dangers that linger in the wake of conflict.

Euronews also highlighted a troubling global trend: experts estimate that up to 10 million landmines are currently planted in 64 countries. Each year, 2 to 5 million new mines are added, perpetuating a cycle of destruction and risk.

As Azerbaijan works tirelessly to clear its landmines, the report calls for continued international support and heightened awareness of the issue that threatens lives and stifles recovery efforts around the world.

By Tamilla Hasanova