House of Commons – April 3, 2025

That this House recognises International Day for Mine Awareness on 4 April 2025; acknowledges the UK’s proud history in championing the Mine Ban Treaty and producing many of the world’s deminers; notes with deep concern the devastating impact of landmines, cluster munitions, and unexploded ordnance, which continue to kill and maim civilians, displace communities, and make land inaccessible for agriculture and economic growth; highlights the urgent need for mine clearance in conflict-affected areas, including Ukraine, where vast contamination threatens lives and livelihoods, and Gaza, now considered the most contaminated place on Earth; further recognises the crucial role of UK aid in supporting global mine action efforts and urges the Government to prioritise and protect this critical area within the aid budget; calls for the diversification of partnerships in mine action, ensuring an integrated approach that includes risk education, land clearance, victim assistance, and advocacy; and stresses the importance of connecting mine action with broader development initiatives to help communities rebuild and thrive.