OSCE welcomes adoption of amendments to mine action law

“Humanitarian demining needs a systemic approach to make sure that efforts of all agencies are coordinated and resources are used with maximum effect to diminish risks to civilians from explosive objects. This week the Ukrainian parliament made a move to change the legislation to enable practical implementation of framework 2019 Mine Action Law. The draft law 2618 [was] adopted in the first reading,” OSCE Project Co-ordinator in Ukraine posted on Facebook.

As noted, the draft law proposes to establish Mine Action Center with existing facilities of the Ministry of Defense and Humanitarian Demining Centre under the State Emergency Service. Their work will be coordinated by a special interagency body.

“The OSCE Project Co-ordinator provided expert advice in the process of elaboration of these changes, and introduced stakeholders to international experience in this sphere. Realistic approach to build the system on existing capacities is embodied in the proposed changes, the Co-ordinator is ready to support further efforts in improving the legal framework and provide assistance in elaboration of the necessary sub-laws and regulations needed for safe and comprehensive clearance of lands, affected by the conflict,” the statement reads.

On June 16, the Verkhovna Rada passed the draft law No. 2618 on simplifying the work of all mine action operators to reduce the number of injuries and deaths of civilians in eastern Ukraine due to the mining of large areas by Russian mercenaries.

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