Message from SRSG, Carlos Ruiz Massieu, on the International Landmine Awareness Day 2024

Today, on the International Day for Mine Awareness, I would like to express my solidarity with victims of mines and their families, as well as to reaffirm the United Nations’ commitment to endeavours that will lead us to a future where communities in Colombia are free from threats posed by landmines.

The presence of landmines and explosive ordnances is an obstacle to communities’ development and hinders the progress that those most affected by the conflict may make in their yearning for peace.

The Peace Agreement presents us with the possibility of developing actions for the benefit of communities and their well-being, of advancing in the transformation of territories and promoting access to land, central aspects for the consolidation of peace. These actions, however, will only be possible in territories free of antipersonnel mines. 

I salute UNMAS for its leadership and all humanitarian agencies and programs that contribute to protecting life and peacebuilding through demining programs. The Verification Mission will continue to facilitate their work. 

I also extend the call of the UN Secretary-General, António Guterres, to take action to end the threat posed by these lethal devices and support communities so they can recover.

Mine action is an “investment in humanity.”

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