Baku: Azerbaijan considers mine action a national socio-economic priority, Nasar Hayat, speaking on behalf of the United Nations Resident Coordinator in Azerbaijan, said at the opening of the 4th International Mine Action Conference, APA reports.
According to Azeri-Press News Agency, under the United Nations-Azerbaijan Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework for 2026-2030, efforts are in place to support the Azerbaijan National Agency for Mine Action (ANAMA). The UN representative stressed the need for greater partnership and international solidarity, noting that while mine contamination is a national issue, mine action is a global responsibility. The experience, technology, and lessons from Azerbaijan’s initiatives could benefit other countries facing similar challenges.
Despite the magnitude of these challenges, Azerbaijan has made significant progress, as highlighted by the United Nations Development Programme’s efforts. A substantial portion of contaminated areas has been surveyed and cleared, with 25.6% of estimated contaminated regions now deemed safe for use.
According to Landmine Monitor 2025, Azerbaijan allocated a remarkable $146 million to national mine action in 2024 alone, marking the highest recorded national financial contribution worldwide. Since November 2020, the government has allocated $566 million to these efforts. This substantial funding underscores Azerbaijan’s commitment to prioritizing mine action as a key socio-economic agenda.