Geneva:Azerbaijan's 'Gilavar' Photo Club Public Union inaugurated a photo exhibition in front of the 'Broken Chair' monument at Place des Nations, Geneva, on October 5. The exhibition, which coincides with the location of the United Nations Office, aims to raise awareness about the effects of Armenia's mine warfare on Azerbaijan.

According to Azeri-Press news agency, the exhibition showcased documentary photographs that tell the stories of Azerbaijanis affected by mine explosions and the destruction caused by Armenia during its occupation of Azerbaijani territories. The display also highlighted the reconstruction efforts by Azerbaijan in these regions.

Rashad Mehdiyev, head of the 'Gilavar' Photo Club, emphasized the call for a 'mine-free world' to be recognized as the 18th Sustainable Development Goal of the United Nations. He pointed out the ongoing threat of landmines, with 60 million people globally at risk, and stressed that Azerbaijan is heavily impacted by this issue. Mehdiyev accused Armenia of targeting civilians by planting over 1.5 million mines during its occupation.

Exhibition visitors learned that Armenia has not provided reliable maps of mined areas, with many mine incidents occurring outside indicated locations. This problem has caused numerous civilian casualties since the 2020 conflict. The mine threat hinders the reconstruction and resettlement efforts in Garabagh and East Zangezur, also affecting the environment and agriculture.

The 'Gilavar' Photo Club plans to extend its campaign to other European countries, advocating for global mine-free initiatives. As a 2026 grant winner for initiatives addressing mines and unexploded ordnance, the club continues to raise awareness and promote a safer future.