The Landmine Crisis is a Global One

There are between 45 and 50 million landmines in the ground in one-third of the world's nations.  Landmines are indiscriminate weapons that maim or kill 15,000 to 20,000 civilians every year. They cost as little as $3 to produce, but as much as $1000 to remove.

The presence of landmines threatens people’s lives, and also prevents much-needed economic growth and development. Long after wars are over, landmines  make land unusable for farming, schools or living, preventing people from rebuilding lives torn apart by conflict.

Defining the Terms

Anti-personnel Landmine:  Designed to explode from a step or a touch; can injure or kill one or more persons.

Anti-tank Landmine:  Designed to detonate from more than 100 kilograms of pressure; AT mines cannot distinguish between a tank and a tractor.

UXO/Unexploded Ordnance:  Refers to munitions such as bombs, shells, mortars and grenades, that have been used but failed to detonate.

ERW/Explosive Remnants of War:  Include UXO as well as abandoned weapons.

Mine Action:  All actions to reduce the social, economic and environmental impact of mines and unexploded ordnance.

NGO: Non-governmental organization.

Adopt-A-Minefield raises funds to support humanitarian demining and survivor assistance in affected countries. We are part of a community of governments and non-governmental organizations (NGOs) that implement all the components of mine action in the field.

Landmines affect women, children, refugees and the environment. The landmine problem is a human rights issue and a health issue. Print out our Fact Sheet to learn more.