Iraq

Mine Action

Humanitarian demining Explosive ordnance risk education Capacity building

Since 2016, FSD has been working in Iraq to clear landmines and other explosive hazards from areas formerly occupied by the Islamic State group, and to raise local awareness of explosive risks, contributing to greater safety and the return of displaced families.

Improvised mines: a deadly legacy

Between 2014 and 2017, the Islamic State group laid hundreds of thousands of improvised mines across the areas it occupied in Iraq: around villages, key infrastructure, roads, fields, schools and even inside houses. These improvised explosive devices, made from everyday materials, continue to restrict access to essential areas and slow reconstruction. They have also left communities living in constant fear and uncertainty, delaying the return of displaced families and the resumption of daily life in affected regions.

Un garçon gardait les moutons quand une mine a explosé sous ses pieds. Son cousin est venu l’aider, et là, un autre engin a explosé.

Millions of square metres cleared

FSD began operations in Iraq in 2016, while parts of the country were still under Islamic State control. Since then, several demining teams have been deployed, particularly in the provinces of Nineveh and Kirkuk. FSD focuses on the destruction of improvised explosive devices, also referred to as improvised mines. Deminers often use armoured construction machinery to remove rubble from collapsed buildings, paving the way for reconstruction.

At the same time, teams conduct explosive ordnance risk education sessions in villages and schools to inform both children and adults and prevent accidents. Digital campaigns complement these activities to reach as many people as possible.

Supporting the return of displaced families

Since the start of its operations in Iraq, FSD has destroyed more than 22,500 improvised mines. This vital work has allowed many displaced families to return home and rebuild safely. Shepherds can once again graze their animals without danger, and children can play outdoors without fear. By raising community awareness of the dangers of improvised mines, FSD helps reduce the risk of accidents in areas that still await clearance.

In 2024, FSD’s programme in Iraq was supported by the United States Department of State, the United Nations Mine Action Service (UNMAS), the Canton of Geneva, GGL Austria, and private donors.

Our impact in Iraq (2024)

987

explosive devices located and destroyed

FSD staff in Iraq

17,727

people reached through in-person explosive ordnance risk education sessions

News from Iraq

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Mine clearance in the mountains of Mosul

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