Kyiv, 20 December 2024 – The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in Ukraine has signed an agreement with Polish Ministry of Foreign Affairs for a contribution of PLN 2,500,000 (approximately US$637,000) to bolster the UNDP Mine Action Project. This critical funding aims to enhance safety and stability in areas of Ukraine heavily contaminated by landmines and explosive remnants of war.

The contribution from Poland will support innovative land release activities, including scaling efforts of Technical Survey Dogs. Under this initiative, 16 specially trained dogs, handled by eight women operators, are actively engaged in surveying extensive mine-contaminated areas in Mykolaiv Oblast. Additionally, around half of the funding is earmarked for UAV and remote sensing testing and field operations conducted in collaboration with the State Emergency Service of Ukraine.

This generous investment will also facilitate essential activities such as strengthening national mine action capacities and advancing strategic land release operationsin affected regions. These efforts are vital to rebuilding livelihoods and fostering resilience in communities impacted by war.

Yulia Svyrydenko, First Deputy Prime Minister of Ukraine and Minister of Economy, said, "We’re deeply thankful for Poland’s generous contribution, which will bolster Ukraine’s safety and help restore normalcy to our affected communities. This collaboration exemplifies the international solidarity needed to surmount the challenges posed by landmines, and reinforces our commitment to creating a secure future for all Ukrainians."

Piotr Łukasiewicz, Charge d’affaires a.i. of the Embassy of Poland to Ukraine, said, “Ukraine is considered to be one of the most mine contaminated countries on the globe. Through this contribution, Poland reaffirms its steadfast pledge to Ukraine's security and progress and its solidarity with Ukraine from day one of the full-fledged war started by the Russian aggressor. We’re confident that our assistance will expedite demining efforts and strengthen the institutional capabilities required to address these challenges, adhering to our joint objectives.”

Jaco Cilliers, UNDP Resident Representative in Ukraine, noted, “Poland's vital support exemplifies the international community's commitment to Ukraine's recovery. These funds will help us advance safety initiatives and empower affected communities, moving towards a future free from fear.”

Poland’s steadfast support underscore its commitment to promoting security and resilience in Ukraine, while highlighting the critical role of international partnerships in addressing global challenges. UNDP and its partners remain dedicated the advancing a safe, more sustainable future for Ukraine. 

Background:
 The UNDP Mine Action Project in Ukraine seeks to integrate mine action with broader humanitarian and development strategies, addressing infrastructure rehabilitation, victim assistance, and explosive ordnance risk education. By leveraging international collaboration and modern technologies, the programme aims to reduce the socio-economic impact of unexploded ordnances, fostering strong community recoveries and enhancing living conditions for affected populations.

Media enquiries: Yuliia Samus, UNDP Ukraine Head of Communications; e-mail: yuliia.samus@undp.org