Global landmine casualties hit 4-year high as states exit treaty

Deaths and injuries from Jandmines and unexploded ordnance hit a four-year high in 2024, driven by conflicts in Syria and Myanmar as well as European countries moving to withdraw from the treaty banning their use, a new report showed on Dec 1.

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Over 6,000 incidents were recorded in 2024, including 1,945 deaths and 4,325 injuries - the highest annual total since 2020, according to the Landmine Monitor 2025 report.

Nearly 90 per cent were civilians, with almost half being women and children.

The surge was driven mainly by mines exploding in conflict zones in Syria and Myanmar — both countries which are outside the treaty.

In Syria, returning residents face growing risks from unexploded ordnance following the fall of former president Bashar al-Assad, the report said.