Landmine Facts

For the first time in history more landmines are coming out of the ground than are going in – a testament to the success of mine action organizations like MLI and its supporters.

What is a Landmine Anyway?

Landmines are small, usually round devices designed to injure or kill people by an explosive blast or flying fragments. Most mines are made of plastic and contain about the same amount of metal as the spring in a ballpoint pen making metal detectors almost useless.

How Are They Triggered?

It takes only a tiny amount of pressure to detonate a landmine. They are indiscriminate killers that can’t tell the difference between the boot of a soldier and the barefoot of a child.

Do De-mining Programs Really Work?

Mine action operations have resulted in the destruction of more than 2.2 million antipersonnel mines, 250,000 anti-vehicle mines, and 17 million explosive remnants of war (ERW).

How Many Types of Landmines Are There?

There are 600 different types of mines.

What Are the Side-Effects of Landmines?

• Landmines deprive people in some of the poorest countries of arable land and infrastructure. They cut off access to markets, schools, work, and water.

• Landmines hold people “hostage” and hamper the repatriation of refugees and displaced people.

• Landmines hinder reconstruction, new development, and the delivery of aid.

• Landmine casualties deprive communities and families of income earners and treasured parents, siblings, spouses, and relatives.

• Mines kill livestock & wild animals, wreaking environmental havoc.

• Over half the landmine causualties are civilians. Among civilian casualties, over 40% are children

• In Iraq, 70% of all casualties are children. Usually, children are injured or killed when traveling to school, playing, or working to contribute to family income.

• Female child casualties are often under reported. In some countries, having a disability is seen as a stigma that needs to be hidden, especially when it occurs among girls.

Is the Problem Over?

No, there are still tens of millions of landmines contaminating more than 60 countries. We need to continue our work, please help support MLI’s programs.