From Economic Recovery to Global Food Security: The Urgent Need to Demine Ukraine

From Economic Recovery to Global Food Security: The Urgent Need to Demine Ukraine

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It is crucial to emphasize the critical importance of demining Ukraine to facilitate its economic recovery and ensure global food security. As of September 2024, approximately 139,300 square kilometers of Ukrainian land require surveying for landmines and explosive remnants of war, rendering it unusable for agriculture and other productive activities.

The presence of landmines has significantly impacted Ukraine's economy, with an estimated annual GDP loss of $11.2 billion. This reduction in agricultural output has also affected global food supplies, as Ukraine was a major exporter of wheat and other crops before the conflict. The World Bank estimates that fully demining Ukraine will cost $34.6 billion, necessitating substantial international support and investment.

The Ukrainian government aims to clear 80% of the affected land within ten years, requiring the training and deployment of 10,000 deminers and the acquisition of specialized equipment. Innovative financing mechanisms and increased international aid are essential to meet these goals. Demining is a prerequisite for Ukraine's economic recovery and for maintaining global food security, highlighting the need for immediate and coordinated action.