Every year and across the world, explosive ordnance (EO) threatens the lives of millions of people. Lives are lost; survivors and their families struggle with the physical, psychological, social, and economic consequences of EO accidents. Since 1998, the GICHD has been working towards reducing risks to individuals and communities caused by EO.
2023 marked the 25th anniversary of the GICHD - founded upon a Swiss initiative to promote international cooperation in humanitarian demining. For the past 25 years, the GICHD has played a crucial role in helping to develop and professionalise explosive ordnance risk reduction.
Unfortunately, there is no light at the end of the tunnel: there is still so much to be done to address challenges caused by anti-personnel mines and other EO. The presence of EO is a threat to the safety and well-being of individuals. In addition, it is a key obstacle to the timely and effective delivery of humanitarian aid, post-conflict stabilisation, recovery and reconstruction, peace, and sustainable development.
Last year, the GICHD entered its new 2023–2026 strategic cycle, building on progress and lessons learnt from 25 years of support to mine action. The Centre supported 32 countries and territories along its four, interconnected lines of service, adapting its support as needed. 21 donor countries made our work possible.