The devastating impact of landmines and unexploded ordnance on civilians, particularly children, in Syria has been highlighted in a recent report by Save the Children charity.
The report reveals that at least 188 children have been killed or injured by these hidden dangers in the past three months alone.
The numbers are staggering. More than 60 children have been killed, and over 120 have been injured by landmines and unexploded ordnance since December. This averages out to about two children a day. The report emphasizes that children are particularly vulnerable to these dangers due to their low awareness of the risks and high curiosity.
Syria has been embroiled in a brutal conflict since 2011, resulting in widespread destruction and a massive humanitarian crisis. The use of landmines and explosive devices has become a hallmark of the conflict, with civilians, including children, bearing the brunt of these hidden dangers.
The United Nations has expressed concerns about the return of displaced persons to Syria, citing the risks posed by landmines and unexploded ordnance. The UN reported that about 1.2 million people have returned home to Syria in the past three months, including over 885,000 who were internally displaced.
Save the Children is calling on the transitional government and international donors to speed up the process of clearing mines and unexploded ordnance in Syria. The charity emphasizes that this is essential to preventing further unnecessary deaths and injuries.
The international community has a critical role to play in supporting the clearance of landmines and unexploded ordnance in Syria. This includes providing funding, expertise, and technical assistance to support the efforts of the Syrian authorities and humanitarian organizations.
The report by Save the Children highlights the urgent need for action to address the scourge of landmines and unexploded ordnance in Syria. The international community must come together to support the clearance of these hidden dangers and prevent further unnecessary deaths and injuries.