To strengthen mine action coordination in Syria, the United Nations Mine Action Service (UNMAS) organised a mine action workshop in Damascus with UNICEF, the National Mine Action Center (NMAC), and partner organisations. The meeting focused on aligning local operations with International Mine Action Standards (IMAS) to improve risk education and victim assistance across Syria.
UNMAS Mine Action Workshop In Damascus
The Mine Action Workshop in Damascus was announced in a post on X by UNMAS. The meeting brought together experts focused on strengthening collaboration between national and international organisations.
UNMAS described the meeting as a key step in coordinating mine action activities in Syria. The discussions focused on improving risk education and victim assistance to support a Syrian-led approach.
“Towards a safer Syria! UNMAS joined UNICEF, the NMAC, and partners in Damascus for a pivotal Mine Action workshop. Experts aligned local ops with international standards #IMAS to boost Risk Education & Victim Assistance. A Syrian-led path to saving lives,” UNMAS said.
The workshop addressed the ongoing risks from explosive remnants of war, which continue to kill and injure civilians. As a result, millions of farmers, families, and communities face daily life-threatening dangers.
Aligning operations with International Mine Action Standards (IMAS) is essential to improve accountability, safety, and effectiveness. This standardisation strengthens both clearance operations and victim assistance activities throughout the country.
Towards a safer Syria!
UNMAS joined UNICEF, the NMAC, and partners in Damascus for a pivotal Mine Action workshop. Experts aligned local ops with international standards #IMAS to boost Risk Education & Victim Assistance. A Syrian-led path to saving lives. #Safefuturesstarthere pic.twitter.com/NdM8QBRdhb
— UNMAS (@UNMAS) January 15, 2026
Syrian-Led Organisations Drive Mine Clearance and Victim Assistance Nationwide
Several Syrian-based non-profits are working to support communities affected by the crisis in Syria. Many of them operate by leading mine clearance efforts across the country.
The White Helmets, also known as Syria Civil Defence conducts mine clearance and explosive disposal operations across Aleppo, Idlib, Hama, and Latakia governorates. They comprise over 3,000 men and women working to support communities affected by war in Syria.
Similarly, Dan for Relief and Development (DRD) operates in Ar-Raqqa and Al-Hasakah to provide access to relief services and livelihood programmes. Founded in 2013, the organisation works with local civil society activists to support communities affected by the Syrian crisis.
The HALO Trust also maintains operations across Syria with over 250 Syrian staff members. They conduct clearance, risk education, and survey operations across Aleppo, Deir ez-Zor, and Idlib. Previously, the HALO Trust inked a 3-year partnership with Trafigura Foundation to clear landmines in Angola.
As explosive contamination continues to threaten millions of Syrians, coordinated action remains essential. Collaboration between UNMAS, UNICEF, NMAC, and Syrian non-profits combines international expertise with local knowledge to strengthen mine action efforts.
