Bern, 30 September 2023 (TDI): Switzerland Foreign Minister, Ignazio Cassis confirmed the Swiss Federal Council’s approval of CHF 100 million for the removal of mines in civilian and agricultural areas of Ukraine on September 29, 2023.
This humanitarian demining fund is allocated for the period between 2024-2027 and will be equally contributed by various Swiss departments, including the Department of Foreign Affairs, Defense, Sport, and Civil Protection.
The allocated funds will be provided to specific projects, chosen based on the needs of these areas and the capabilities of different demining groups.
The Swiss Embassy will oversee the implementation of these projects to ensure their successful implementation.
This contribution will significantly enhance the ongoing demining efforts in Ukraine, and support the works carried out by organizations like FSD and other demining operators.
This additional funding will enable Switzerland to provide essential equipment and training to Ukrainian deminers.
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The Swiss government has been actively engaged in demining efforts in Ukraine and previously allocated CHF 15.2 million between 2022 and 2023 to support the demining efforts.
This support has been primarily directed to support the work of organizations like the Geneva International Center for Humanitarian Demining and the Swiss Foundation for Demining.
It is noted that Ukraine has faced a heavy mine contamination issue since Russia’s full-scale invasion 18 months ago making it one of the most mined countries globally.
Approximately one-third of Ukraine’s land area, equivalent to 174,000 square meters, which is larger than England, Wales, and Northern Ireland combined, is now covered with mines and various other destructive materials.
Clearing this vast area of mines is essential for the reconstruction of the country.
