Ukraine’s Mine Danger: 26% at Risk

Ukraine’s Danger: Landmines

Approximately 156,000 square kilometers (60,232 square miles) of Ukrainian territory — about 26% of the country’s total area — is now considered potentially dangerous due to explosive ordnance contamination. To put this in perspective, this is larger than the state of Florida.

The economic toll is staggering. According to a study by the Tony Blair Institute conducted with Ukraine’s Ministry of Economy, mines and explosive remnants cause annual losses of $11.2 billion — equivalent to 5.6% of Ukraine’s pre-war GDP. Four regions — Chernihiv, Sumy, Mykolaiv, and Kharkiv — have lost over 20% of their regional GDP due to mined areas, with local authorities losing more than $1.1 billion in local taxes.

The World Bank estimates that nearly $35 billion will be needed to completely demine Ukrainian territory. However, the investment would pay for itself in less than three and a half years after clearance, through revitalized agriculture, infrastructure, and economic activity.

UFF Partnership with Ukrainian Center for Humanitarian Protection

Founded in 2017, the Ukrainian Center for Humanitarian Protection (UCHP) is a certified mine action operator specializing in informing populations about mine risks. Their work focuses on protecting civilians from war remnants through awareness campaigns and educational programs.

Together with UCHP, UFF is now:

– Conducting educational sessions in heavily affected communities on safe behavior in mine-contaminated areas;

– Developing specialized training approaches for different age groups (6-11, 12-17, and adults);

– Supporting awareness initiatives in regions where active combat has occurred;

– Distributing educational materials about explosive hazards;

– Assisting in the coordination between international demining organizations and local communities.

This collaboration comes at a critical time, as Ukraine’s government launches new initiatives to accelerate demining efforts.