BAKU, Azerbaijan, December 26. The results of a
study on mine victims in Azerbaijan have been presented and
discussed at an event held at the International Eurasia Press Fund
(IEPF) on December 26, Trend reports.


The discussion focused on the outcomes of the project titled
“Mine and Unexploded Ordnance Incidents and Support for Mitigating
Their Impact,” implemented by the Mine Victims Association of
Azerbaijan Public Union. Opening the event with introductory
remarks, the Public Union's Chairman Rey Karimoglu provided
detailed information about the project, noting that its main
objective was to collect and analyze data related to mine and
unexploded ordnance (UXO) incidents during the Karabakh war and the
post-conflict period, as well as to assess the social needs of
those affected.


“Our organization successfully implemented this project last
year in 11 districts and cities, including Fuzuli, Beylagan,
Aghdam, Aghjabadi, Barda, Tartar, Goranboy, Naftalan, Baku,
Sumgayit, and Absheron. During the project, we met with 960 people
and conducted surveys. Within this framework, we identified mine
and UXO victims across these districts and cities and studied their
needs. The collected data were analyzed and compiled into a
comprehensive report, which was presented to the NGO Support
Agency, ministries, and relevant state bodies. The report was also
shared with representatives of embassies and international
organizations operating in our country,” he said.


Karimoglu added that this year the project was carried out in 8
districts and cities, including Gazakh, Tovuz, Aghstafa, Shamkir,
Goygol, Dashkasan, Gadabay, and the city of Ganja. He noted that
surveys were conducted using internationally recognized IMSMA
questionnaires. Although more than 400 mine victims were initially
estimated, 373 individuals were successfully surveyed.


“We plan to use the collected data to develop effective programs
aimed at preventing and reducing the harm caused by mines and UXO
to human life and health, as well as improving the social
conditions of victims. These efforts will contribute to mitigating
the consequences of mine and UXO incidents and enhancing the
well-being of those affected. I would like to emphasize that
throughout the implementation of the project, we took into account
the priorities defined by the Azerbaijani state and the Azerbaijan
Mine Action Agency (ANAMA),” he stated.


Karimoglu also recalled that similar nationwide work was last
carried out under the leadership of ANAMA in 2004–2005, with the
participation of IEPF and several other non-governmental
organizations.


“Since then, many years have passed. Some victims have passed
away, and their needs have changed. Moreover, since that period,
Azerbaijan has experienced the April clashes, the Patriotic War,
and anti-terror operations. Many people have suffered from mines
and UXO. According to official data provided by ANAMA, from 1991 to
late 2025, the number of mine victims exceeded 3,400, including 362
children and 38 women. From November 2020 to December 25, 2025, the
number of mine victims reached 415, of whom 71 were killed, and 344
were injured,” he said.







During the event, IEPF President Umud Mirzayev spoke about the
importance of the project, emphasizing that initiatives aimed at
reducing the mine and UXO threat contribute not only to the
protection of individuals who have suffered physical injuries but
also to the overall safety and well-being of society. He stressed
that protecting the rights of mine victims, ensuring their social
rehabilitation, and facilitating their reintegration into society
are essential conditions for long-term peace and stability.


Representatives from ANAMA, the Social Research Center, the
Ministry of Labor and Social Protection, human rights defenders,
and civil society organizations collectively emphasized the
critical relevance of the project, particularly in addressing mine
victim rehabilitation, psychological and social support, and public
awareness initiatives. Speakers underscored the persistent and
significant threat posed by landmines, stressing the necessity for
coordinated and comprehensive action in this domain.


Zaur Ibrahimli, a member of the Supervisory Board of the Agency
for State Support to Non-Governmental Organizations, also delivered
remarks, offering a positive evaluation of the project's final
report. In addition, members of the Public Council under ANAMA were
present at the event.


The project, which received financial backing from the Agency
for State Support to Non-Governmental Organizations of Azerbaijan,
was highlighted for its contribution to addressing the ongoing mine
threat. Furthermore, the research report will be translated into
English and shared with international organizations to foster
broader cooperation and awareness.


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