Baku: The scale of international support for mine action efforts in Azerbaijan remains very limited, according to Elchin Amirbayov, the Representative of the President of the Republic of Azerbaijan on Special Assignments. During his address at the 4th International Mine Action Conference, Amirbayov emphasized the ongoing humanitarian and psychological impact of landmines since the end of the 2020 war. He noted that 437 people have been killed or injured by landmines, creating a lasting impact on families and society, and underscored the negative effects on public confidence in the normalization process.

According to Azerbaijan State News Agency, Amirbayov highlighted the broader consequences of mine explosions, which extend beyond immediate victims. He stressed that the mine contamination in Azerbaijan is extensive, with more than 13 percent of the territory affected. Six years after the war, 75 percent of the contaminated areas remain uncleared, posing significant challenges to human security and the return of displaced persons. Amirbayov pointed out the urgency of the situation, given Azerbaijan's large-scale post-conflict reconstruction efforts, which include rebuilding villages, towns, and essential infrastructure.

Amirbayov expressed gratitude to countries and organizations that have supported Azerbaijan's mine-action efforts, acknowledging their friendship and solidarity. However, he noted that approximately 95 percent of the funding for these efforts comes from Azerbaijan's state resources, with only 5 percent contributed by international sources. Amirbayov called for a change in this imbalance, emphasizing the need for increased international support to facilitate safe reconstruction and the right to return and live without fear in mine-affected areas.