UN Rights Expert Richard Bennett Warns of Mine Casualties in Afghanistan
Richard Bennett, the United Nations Special Rapporteur on human rights, has called on the international community to increase and sustain financial support for mine clearance programs in Afghanistan ahead of the “International Day for Mine Awareness and Assistance in Mine Action.” He emphasized that continued assistance is vital to saving the lives of civilians.
On Thursday, March 2, Bennett issued a statement expressing concern over civilian casualties caused by landmines and other explosive remnants of war. He stated that immediate and sustained international investment in mine clearance operations is an urgent necessity.
The UN Special Rapporteur added that Afghanistan remains among the countries most affected by landmines and explosive remnants of war. These explosives are found in many residential and agricultural areas, posing a threat to the lives of local residents, especially children.
Meanwhile, it is expected that the Taliban administration, as the authority responsible for governing the country’s territories, will provide safe and unobstructed access for mine clearance organizations and cooperate effectively with international entities to reduce risks and protect civilians. The continuation of the current situation constitutes a serious threat to the lives and livelihoods of the Afghan people.
