LONDON: Ancient landmarks across the Middle East and Central Asia face not only the ravages of time but also landmines and explosives from years of war. From the colonnades of Palmyra in Syria to Afghanistan’s Herat Citadel, cultural treasures remain at risk and often out of reach.
The danger goes far beyond heritage. Despite being banned in 165 countries under the 1997 Ottawa Convention, landmines remain entrenched in conflict zones, claiming lives and causing life-altering injuries.
In 2023, they caused 2,426 deaths and 3,331 injuries worldwide, according to the Landmine and Cluster Munition Monitor. Civilians made up 84 percent of the victims, and more than one-third were children.
Infographic from the Landmine Monitor 2024 report
The toll — the highest for the ninth year in a row — reflects both an increase in armed conflicts and the growing use of improvised mines.
