Every year, the United States joins the global reach of the UN International Day of Mine Action. The aim is to reflect on the progress in clearing landmines and hidden dangers of the surrounding communities near the mines.
Here are 5 things you should know about America’s support for mine action.
America is the largest financial supporter of Weapons Destruction in the World
The United States shares common interests in those who work to address the damage of landmines and civilians to prevent weapons from falling into the wrong hands. For the past twenty years, the United States has invested almost $3 billion in efforts to reduce the effects of at-risk weapons of war.
U.S. Programs Vital in Defeat Against Terrorists
In the midst of the fight against ISIS, the U.S. is fighting to ensure that ISIS stays out of the cities it once pushed out. However, many are leaving explosive devices in places like schools, places of worship, and hospitals.
The U.S. is also assisting in several non-governmental organizations in efforts to restore access to refugees and stabilization.
Countries are Mine-Free Due to America’s Investment
In 2015, as many as 16 countries have declared themselves mine-free due to the efforts of the United States and international organizations.
Support for Training, Education, and Rehab
Aside from the removal of landmines, the U.S. has also invested in risk education to prevent later accidents and offer services of rehabilitation, prosthetics, and training. Civilians in Iraq are fleeing large cities as many are not familiar with the local mines and hazards. As a result, families are confronted with hazards and booby-traps created by ISIS. Today, the U.S. supports the education of risk and prevention for nearly 90,000 civilians.
U.S. Programs for Weapons Destruction to aid in Demining
The conventional weapons destruction programs prevent light weapons, small arms, and ammunition from falling into terrorist hands. As stocks of excess conventional arms cause threat in security, terrorists are fueled to carry on violence. Additionally, the result of lost weapons or theft will lead to dangerous outcomes as poorly maintained stockpiles may become at risk of the explosion without notice.
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