Which countries are most severely affected by mines and cluster munition remnants?

There are several different factors to be considered when measuring the severity of mine or cluster munition contamination. Some countries have a large number of mines located in areas that are not heavily populated or traveled, meaning that the impact of mines on people is minimal. In other countries, a relatively small number of mines can have a disproportionately high impact on people if they are located in areas that are densely populated or on land that is needed for livelihood activities like farming and grazing animals.

One way to assess the impact of mines or cluster munition remnants is to look at the number of people killed or injured by these weapons. This gives a rough picture, but it is important to keep in mind that many victims of mines, cluster munition remnants, and other explosive remnants of war (ERW) are not included in these figures because of poor data collection. Additionally, risk education programs may reduce the number of casualties, while communities continue to suffer grave consequences of mine contamination, such as an inability to work, farm, go to school, access healthcare, and many other vital activities.

For the latest information about mine, cluster munition remnant, and other ERW contamination and casualties, click here to view our interactive maps, visit the latest editions of Landmine Monitor and Cluster Munition Monitor, or see the answer to these questions on contamination and casualties.

(Last updated September 2019)