As part of the 29th session of the Conference of the Parties to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change – COP29 in Baku, the Mine Action Agency of the Republic of Azerbaijan (ANAMA) and UNDP organised a side event titled “Clearing a Path: Mine Action for Climate Resilience and Sustainable Development”. 

The purpose of the event is to draw attention to the landmine challenge faced by Azerbaijan, highlight the impact of landmine hazards on natural resources, explore environmentally friendly demining practices, and promote sustainable approaches in the field of humanitarian demining.

In his opening remarks, the board chairperson of ANAMA Vugar Suleymanov noted: “In the Republic of Azerbaijan, the ecological toll from nearly 1.5 million landmines planted across the liberated territories has been devastating. When detonated mines spill pollutants, introducing heavy metals and other toxins into the soil and air. This chemical contamination poses long-term risks to environmental damage. Demining is not just about safety, it is a cornerstone for climate resilience and sustainable development”. 

“Through our joint efforts, UNDP and ANAMA have made significant strides in ensuring safer environments for communities while supporting long-term recovery and resilience. This partnership not only focuses on clearing contaminated land but also emphasizes supporting local capacity building, community engagement, and sustainable development”, the UN Assistant Secretary-General, UNDP Assistant Administrator and Director of the Regional Bureau for Europe and the Commonwealth of Independent States Ivana Zivkovic said in her speech.

Panel discussions during the side event covered topics such as the impact of landmines on ecosystems, biodiversity, and natural resources, as well as efforts to conduct mine clearance with minimal environmental impact, and the use of innovative technologies in this area.

This side event within COP29 not only highlighted new approaches for integrating environmental sustainability with mine action but also underscored the humanitarian and ecological importance of demining operations. The discussions, organised by ANAMA and UNDP, reaffirmed the significance of mine clearance for the protection of natural resources and the restoration of biodiversity. This event, aligning with the main themes of COP29, marked an important step towards a safer and more sustainable environment for the future.