MAG (Mines Advisory Group)

In #Myanmar, MAG has launched an emergency response to help keep people safe from landmines and explosive ordnance that pose a lethal threat in areas devastated by the earthquake. Read more ⬇️

This week, representatives from Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office, UK in the Caribbean and US Embassy visited MAG and CARICOM IMPACS work in Trinidad and Tobago to see firsthand how our teams are tackling the challenges around arms and ammunition management and improving community safety. Safe management of seized small arms, light weapons and explosive items helps prevent accidental explosion and diversion, mitigating armed violence and contributing to peace. Thank you to the US and UK Governments for their vital support.

Today, we welcomed Phil Brickell MP to the MAG Manchester office to discuss our work tackling conflict and violence. He heard from colleagues in Ukraine about MAG's work clearing land and helping communities rebuild, with the support of the UK Government. Thank you for your support, Phil.

In #Benin, MAG recently hosted a three-day workshop on the safe management and transportation of seized weapons and explosive materials. Officers and unit commanders came together to discuss best practices on this critical issue. With support from Global Affairs Canada | Affaires mondiales Canada, MAG has been implementing an innovative project on armed violence reduction across the Gulf of Guinea and the Sahel since November 2023. Effective and safe management of seized small arms, light weapons and explosive materials helps prevent accidental explosion and diversion, mitigating armed violence and contributing to peace. These workshops provide a vital platform for collaboration among key stakeholders.

New report 📣 Our latest evaluation examines the impact of Dutch-funded mine action programmes delivered by MAG across nine countries. Over five years, these programmes have improved safety, boosted agriculture, driven job creation and fostered peace. These outcomes have played a crucial role in stabilising communities, changing lives, and helping those affected by conflict and armed violence rebuild their futures. Thank you to the Dutch government for its commitment to humanitarian mine action. Read the full report: https://buff.ly/OGFumrR

For the second time in a week, MAG teams in Quang Binh, #Vietnam, have safely removed a large bomb from a populated area. Days after a 118kg bomb was discovered embedded under a bridge, a 230kg MK82 bomb was found by a local fisherman just 250 metres from homes. MAG teams responded, rendering it safe before moving it to a designated demolition site for safe disposal. Five decades after the war, these deadly devices continue to threaten communities, putting lives at risk as people farm, fish, and rebuild. Read more ➡️ https://buff.ly/OAhrO99

Shocking discovery in Vietnam 🇻🇳   While rebuilding a bridge in a village in Quang Binh this week, a construction crew struck a 118kg MK81 bomb hidden in the foundation. MAG teams secured and safely removed the bomb, which had a blast radius of over 1km, and transported it for safe disposal.   50 years after war, unexploded bombs remain a daily threat. Thanks to support from the U.S. Department of State and the Government of Japan.   Read more ➡️ https://buff.ly/CahnsTV

Statement from MAG Chief Executive Darren Cormack following an incident in Deir al Balah, Gaza, today, that left a MAG staff member injured.

MAG's response to the news that the defence ministers of Poland, Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania have recommended their withdrawal from the Anti-Personnel Mine Ban Convention, also known as the Ottawa Convention:

Every day, 15 people are killed or injured by landmines. But with your help, MAG can find and destroy these deadly weapons before they destroy lives. In our BBC Radio 4 appeal, MAG Ambassador Rosamund Pike shares why urgent action is needed – and how you can make a difference. 🎧 Listen now: buff.ly/9mAM1gZ ➡️ Donate today: buff.ly/pVqsQSB