Over one-third of mine action personnel in Ukraine are women

The Ministry of Defence is committed to ensuring equitable access to mine action roles.

This was reported by Colonel Oleh Shuvarskyi, Head of the Mine Action Department and Deputy Head of the Main Directorate of Mine Action, Civil Protection, and Environmental Safety, during the ‘Promoting Social Engagement and Gender Equality in Ukraine’s Mine Action’ workshop.

“Our objective is to ensure equitable opportunities for all, including women, individuals with disabilities, and members of diverse social and cultural groups. For instance, the proportion of women engaged in mine action currently exceeds 35%,” noted Oleh Shuvarskyi.

The workshop was organized by the Geneva International Centre for Humanitarian Demining (GICHD). Research conducted by this organization indicates that a significant number of explosive ordnance survivors express a desire to actively participate in mine action operations. For instance, following the completion of specialized training, they can remotely operate mechanized demining vehicles and UAVs or conduct mine risk education and communication operations.

The Ministry of Defence had previously announced plans to involve veterans in mine action.