RASC News Agency: The United Nations Assistance Mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA) has stated that unexploded ordnance (UXO) is the leading cause of disability in the country. The organization highlighted that the remnants of war are widespread, causing numerous casualties and disabilities annually. According to UNAMA, approximately 1.5 million people in Afghanistan live with significant disabilities. In a statement issued on Tuesday, December 3, to mark the International Day of Persons with Disabilities, the organization emphasized that unexploded munitions are the primary cause of disabilities in Afghanistan, with children being the most vulnerable.
The International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) has previously reported that decades of conflict have left parts of Afghanistan heavily contaminated with landmines and other explosive remnants of war. The United Nations has noted that three million people live within one kilometer of these dangerous remnants, posing a constant risk to their safety. According to the UN, each year, dozens of individuals lose their lives or suffer life-changing injuries from the detonation of mines and unexploded ordnance.
UNAMA further underscored that landmines continue to be the leading cause of disability in Afghanistan and urged greater international attention and action to mitigate the devastating effects of unexploded ordnance. On the occasion of the International Day of Persons with Disabilities, the European Union Office in Afghanistan reaffirmed its commitment to supporting people with disabilities, stressing the significant barriers they face in accessing essential healthcare and services. Numerous humanitarian organizations have pledged to continue their efforts to support people with disabilities in Afghanistan, addressing their immediate needs and working to improve their long-term well-being.
Afghanistan, having endured decades of conflict, remains littered with landmines and explosive remnants, further exacerbating the challenges faced by its vulnerable population.
