Geneva:Azerbaijan's 'Gilavar' Photo Club Public Union inaugurated a photo exhibition at the Place des Nations in Geneva, Switzerland, showcasing the impacts of Armenia's mine warfare against Azerbaijan. Held in front of the symbolic 'Broken Chair' monument, the exhibition presented documentary photographs illustrating the experiences of Azerbaijanis affected by mine explosions and the destruction caused during Armenia's long occupation of Azerbaijani territories. The exhibition also highlighted the reconstruction efforts by Azerbaijan in these areas.

According to Azerbaijan State News Agency, Rashad Mehdiyev, head of the 'Gilavar' Photo Club, emphasized the need for international action to establish a 'mine-free world,' suggesting it as the 18th Sustainable Development Goal of the United Nations. He noted the severe impact of landmines, with 60 million people globally at risk and Azerbaijan being one of the most affected nations. Mehdiyev highlighted that Armenia planted over 1.5 million mines in the occupied territories, targeting civilians and creating significant hazards in various areas, including settlements and mass grave sites.

Despite international appeals, Armenia has not provided reliable maps of the mined areas, leading to numerous civilian casualties post the 2020 conflict. This ongoing threat hinders Azerbaijan's reconstruction and resettlement efforts in Garabagh and East Zangezur. The widespread presence of mines also poses environmental challenges, affecting agriculture and the region's ecology.

Exhibition attendees expressed optimism about the future, hoping for Garabagh and East Zangezur to be declared mine-free soon. The 'Gilavar' Photo Club plans to continue its campaign across Europe to advocate for a 'mine-free world.'

The club is recognized as a winner of the 2026 grant competition 'Initiatives on the Problem of Mines and Unexploded Ordnance,' supported by the Agency for State Support of Non-Governmental Organizations of the Republic of Azerbaijan and the Garabagh Revival Fund.