Ukrainian Experience at the International Conference on Mine Action 🇺🇦🇦🇿
On September 2–3, the 4th International Conference on Mine Action was held in Baku. Since 2022, this annual international platform has brought together representatives of governments, international organizations, specialized institutions, and experts to discuss current mine action challenges, exchange practices, and strengthen cooperation.
Over the years, the conference has been held not only in Baku: in 2023, some sessions took place in Aghdam, while in 2024, they were held in Zangilan. This brought international discussions closer to areas directly affected by mine contamination, where recovery and reconstruction efforts are underway.
This year, the conference brought together more than 400 participants from 60 countries. Its theme was “Humanitarian Demining for Urban Recovery: Setting High Standards for Safe Settlements.” The focus was on the role of mine action in safe reconstruction and the return of affected communities, as well as innovation and international cooperation.
The Ukrainian Deminers Association was represented at the conference by Chairman of the Board Tymur Pistryuha, Chairman’s Advisor and Board Member Ivan Bashniak, and Project Manager Anastasiia Puhach. Tymur Pistryuha also took part in the panel discussion “Humanitarian Demining for Resilient Communities.”
In his presentation, Tymur spoke about the role of mine action in the safe return of people and the recovery of communities. Humanitarian demining is not only about clearing land of mines and explosive ordnance. Above all, it is about bringing people home, restoring livelihoods, developing communities, and building confidence in the future.
That is why it is important for us to be part of the international professional dialogue: to share Ukraine’s experience, exchange practices with colleagues from other countries, and work together to find solutions that help bring affected territories back to safe and sustainable life.
We thank Azerbaijan 🇦🇿 and the conference organizers for the opportunity to present the experience of Ukraine and the UDA at the international level.
