Mines in Libya
The popular protests against the Gaddafi regime in Libya which began in February this year triggered an armed rebellion against Gaddafi who has been in power in the country for over 40 years. As of October 2011 there are still clashes between the opposition and Gaddafi-loyal forces. The opposition, led by the National Transition Council, is in control of the capital Tripoli and the majority of the country.
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Hard battles on the ground and military air strikes have led to massive proliferation of unexploded remnants of war, including landmines and cluster bombs, in addition to unsecured weapon stockpiles. The consequence is a major humanitarian threat to civilians and a general safety hazard. Landmines left behind after the Second World War and by the Libyan army in recent years have for many years been an obstacle to the socio-economic development in the country.
In 2011 Norwegian People's Aid is working to map out the location of the mines from the Second World War. The mapping is done by analyzing data and bomb maps. We are also conducting a study to map out the effects of using explosive weapons in densely populated areas, based on Misrata, which is one of the hardest hit areas. Norwegian People's Aid aims to help with the clearing of landmines, cluster bombs and other unexploded ordnance, as well as dismantling and securing of weapons in Libya. Our program in Libya is under development and further updates will follow as our program expands.
