Baku: South Africa's prominent Independent Online (IOL) portal and the Cape Times newspaper have brought attention to Azerbaijan's critical landmine issue through an article titled 'Azerbaijan's Landmine Problem: Policy, Progress, and the Path Ahead,' authored by journalist Zingisa Mkhuma. The piece delves into the challenges faced by Azerbaijan as it endeavors to clear over a million landmines left over from nearly three decades of military occupation by Armenia.
According to Azerbaijan State News Agency, the article highlights that approximately 14% of Azerbaijan's territory remains contaminated with landmines and explosive remnants of war (ERW), posing a significant threat to human lives, hindering socioeconomic progress, and complicating the return of displaced communities. The unmarked and unnecessary deployment of these mines is a clear violation of international law, leaving Azerbaijan with a perilous legacy.
Between 2020 and December 2025, mine incidents have resulted in over 400 casualties, including fatalities, with victims comprising children, young people, and women. The article notes that in the past three decades, the landmines have claimed the lives of more than 3,400 Azerbaijanis.
The article further explains that Azerbaijan has implemented a comprehensive policy framework to address the crisis. The Azerbaijan National Agency for Mine Action (ANAMA), founded in 1998, is leading efforts in humanitarian demining. Beyond human casualties, the mines have also disrupted ecosystems, with over a million mines damaging flora and fauna in Garabagh, dispersing plastic waste, degrading fertile soils, and contaminating water sources.
Following Azerbaijan's victory in the 44-day Patriotic War, the nation has embarked on modernization and development projects, particularly in Garabagh and East Zangezur. These efforts are part of one of the world's most ambitious post-conflict reconstruction programs. Under President Ilham Aliyev's leadership, Azerbaijan is transforming into a dynamic and forward-looking country, with new transport routes such as the Zangezur Corridor enhancing regional economic integration and sustainability.