Baku, July 15, AZERTAC
South Africa’s leading Independent Online (IOL) portal and the Cape Times newspaper have published an article titled “Azerbaijan’s Landmine Problem: Policy, Progress, and the Path Ahead” authored by journalist Zingisa Mkhuma.
“The Republic of Azerbaijan is grappling with one of the most severe landmine contamination crises in the world.
After nearly three decades of military occupation by Armenia, the country faces the daunting task of clearing more than a million landmines and countless explosive remnants of war (ERW) scattered across its liberated territories.
The scale of the problem is staggering: surveys show that NEARLY 14% of Azerbaijan’s total territory – remain contaminated. This contamination not only endangers lives but also obstructs socioeconomic development and the safe return of displaced populations.
The indiscriminate deployment of mines, without markings or military necessity, violates international law and has left Azerbaijan with a deadly legacy.
Between 2020 and December 2025, 253 mine incidents caused over 400 casualties, including fatalities. Among the victims were 14 children and young people, as well as women. Over the past 30 years, more than 3,400 Azerbaijanis have fallen victim to mines,” the article said.
According to the article, Azerbaijan has developed a comprehensive policy framework to tackle the crisis. The Azerbaijan National Agency for Mine Action (ANAMA), established in 1998, spearheads humanitarian demining.
It further said that beyond human casualties, mines wreak havoc on ecosystems.
“More than a million mines have destroyed flora and fauna in Garabagh. Explosions scatter plastic waste, degrade fertile soils, and contaminate water sources,” the author emphasized.
“It is particularly noteworthy that after the 44-day Patriotic War, in which Azerbaijan won a brilliant victory, it has continued through modernization and large-scale development projects.
The most compelling example of this approach can be seen in Garabagh and East Zangezur, where Azerbaijan has launched one of the world’s most ambitious post-conflict reconstruction programs following complete liberation of its territory in 2020.
Under President Ilham Aliyev’s leadership, Azerbaijan has emerged as one of the most dynamic and forward-looking countries in the region. New transport corridors, including the strategically important Zangezur Corridor, are integrating these regions into national and regional economic systems, reinforcing their long-term viability,” the article concluded.