Who we are

United Nations Mine Action Service (UNMAS) is a division of the UN Department of Peacekeeping Operations that works to ensure an effective and coordinated response to landmines and explosive remnants of war (ERW), through collaboration with all interested actors.

Why we are here

 
Following over 50 years of civil war and a six-year Comprehensive Peace Agreement (CPA) implementation period, the Republic of South Sudan became the world’s newest country on 9 July 2011.

Throughout the long-running conflict, landmines were used by all parties to defend their positions and disrupt the movement and operations of enemies. Their pervasive use has meant that now, years after the peace agreement was signed, mines and ERW continue to affect communities.

Each year in South Sudan, people are maimed and killed in accidents and communities are prevented from receiving humanitarian aid. Development and reconstruction are stalled due to the threat of landmines.

The socio-economic impact of landmines and ERW on agricultural production, food security, economic activities, and freedom of movement is incalculable. UNMAS seeks to address these challenges through its mine action work that reduces the threat and impact of landmines.

What we do / What we have done >>