Myanmar Becomes Leading Nation for Landmine Casualties, Overtaking Syria
Myanmar has surpassed Syria as the country with the highest landmine casualties, according to the Landmine Monitor 2024 report. The casualties, recorded at 1,003 last year, are a consequence of escalating conflict following the 2021 military coup. Both the military and various armed groups have employed landmines, causing significant harm, particularly to civilians, including children. The humanitarian implications are dire, necessitating urgent international attention to the situation.
A recent report from the International Campaign to Ban Landmines indicates that Myanmar has overtaken Syria as the country with the highest incidence of landmine casualties. The increase in casualties is attributed to the ongoing violence following the military coup in February 2021, with incidents recorded throughout most regions of the country. The report highlights that both the military junta and various armed groups are utilizing landmines, with alarming consequences for civilians, including children.
The escalation of conflict in Myanmar has led to a worrying proliferation of landmines and explosive remnants of war across its territories. As civilian populations have armed themselves against the junta, there have been increased incidents of landmines causing injuries and fatalities, particularly among those collecting waste or working in agricultural areas. The military reportedly exploits civilians to navigate minefields, presenting a grave humanitarian concern.
According to the Landmine Monitor 2024, Myanmar recorded a total of 1,003 casualties due to landmines last year, while Syria had 933. Despite these figures, the actual numbers may be much higher due to inadequate reporting mechanisms in Myanmar. The global pattern reveals that civilians, especially children, are disproportionately affected by landmine incidents, underscoring the urgent need for international attention and intervention.
The proliferation of landmines globally has become a critical humanitarian issue, particularly in conflict zones. The use of such ordnance poses significant risks to civilian populations, often leading to severe injuries and fatalities. The transition of Myanmar into the leading country for landmine casualties is linked directly to the political and military upheaval that began with the January 2021 coup. This escalated conflict features both old and newly-formed armed groups, complicating efforts to curtail landmine use. Understanding the scale of the humanitarian crisis requires acknowledging the long-standing issues of militarization and civilian safety in Myanmar and similar regions.
In summary, the findings from the Landmine Monitor 2024 highlight a disturbing trend in Myanmar, where civilian safety is severely compromised due to the extensive use of landmines amidst ongoing conflict. This situation not only surpasses the previous record held by Syria but also calls for an urgent international response to address the humanitarian crisis and prevent further loss of life. With the report confirming widespread use of these deadly devices, there is an immediate need for actions aimed at banning landmines and protecting vulnerable populations.
Original Source: www.theguardian.com
