The global community observes April 4th as International Mine Warning and Mine Threat Assistance Day, a poignant reminder of the ongoing threat posed by landmines worldwide. Enshrined by a resolution from the UN General Assembly in 2005, this day serves as a call to action to raise awareness about the dangers of landmines and bolster efforts to combat their proliferation. Since 2022, the UN has commemorated this day under the banner "Safe place, safe step, safe home."
In a symbolic gesture to mark this significant occasion, a remarkable event unfolded at the Baku Olympic Stadium: a spirited match between the "Garabagh" and "Neftchi" amputee football teams. This initiative, jointly organized by the Demining Agency of the Republic of Azerbaijan and the Association of Azerbaijan Football Federations, underscores the power of sports in fostering societal integration and amplifying awareness of the perils posed by landmines.
The significance of hosting football matches for amputees, who have endured the harrowing consequences of landmine explosions, cannot be overstated. Such endeavors play a pivotal role in facilitating the rehabilitation and reintegration of landmine victims into society, while simultaneously serving as a catalyst for mass consciousness-raising about the inherent dangers of landmines, as exemplified through the universal language of football.
Highlighting Azerbaijan's commitment to amputee football, it's noteworthy that the Azerbaijani national team, affiliated with the European Amputee Football Federation, clinched second place in the "D" division of the League of Nations held in Scotland in 2023. This remarkable achievement secured their qualification for the upcoming European Championship slated to be held in France in 2024, a testament to the resilience and determination of these athletes.
However, behind these triumphs lie sobering statistics: since the Patriotic War, 350 individuals have fallen victim to landmine explosions in Azerbaijan, resulting in 65 fatalities and 285 injuries. Tragically, the cumulative toll of landmine incidents in Azerbaijan stands at 3,429 victims, with 595 lives lost. Among these victims, 357 are children and youth, while 38 are women, underscoring the indiscriminate and devastating impact of landmines on communities.
As the world commemorates International Mine Warning and Mine Threat Assistance Day, let us reaffirm our collective resolve to eradicate the scourge of landmines, ensuring a safer and more secure future for all.
