Frequently asked questions

FSD is currently active in seven countries: Afghanistan, Colombia, Iraq, the Philippines, the Central African Republic, Tajikistan and Ukraine. Over the years, FSD has operated in around 30 countries. See our page where we work.

In the late 1990s, awareness grew that the massive and long-lasting impact of landmines on civilians could not be left solely to the military but required a humanitarian response. Against this backdrop, and as part of the international momentum around the Ottawa Treaty, a group of Swiss citizens and humanitarian professionals founded FSD in 1997. Read more about FSD’s history.

The core mission of FSD is humanitarian demining. Our aim is to reduce the impact of landmines and explosive remnants of war by locating and neutralising explosive devices, raising awareness among affected populations, assisting victims and strengthening local demining capacities. In addition, FSD works in post-conflict contexts to support peacebuilding, environmental clearance and food security. Discover our areas of expertise. 

The training required to become a deminer depends on the specific role. On the one hand, explosive ordnance disposal experts have many years of experience and advanced training across different contexts. On the other, locally recruited deminers are trained directly by FSD.

FSD provides intensive four-to-six-week training programmes on site for local staff, combining theory and practice. The courses focus on the use of metal detectors and other demining tools.

Could you be a deminer? Take the quiz. 

Deminers generally use a metal detector to scan the ground for signals before carefully excavating and neutralising any suspected device. Different types of detectors are used depending on the nature of the contamination and the soil. Dogs and rats, trained to detect the smell of explosives, can also be deployed under certain conditions.

Yes. Soil preparation machines can be used to support manual demining operations under certain conditions. These are specialised, armoured and usually remote-controlled machines that remove vegetation and detonate small mines as they advance. The areas are then checked manually to ensure that no explosive devices remain. Specialised equipment is also used to clear rubble contaminated with explosive remnants of war. Learn more about mechanical demining.

Drones are used during the survey phase before demining begins. They can fly over suspected areas to detect signs of explosive devices or shell impacts. A drone equipped with ground-penetrating radar is also currently being tested to improve detection capacity. More information on the use of drones.

Deminers wear personal protective equipment made of kevlar to protect vital areas, as well as a blast visor. Unlike military units, humanitarian deminers do not use full-body protective suits. Watch our “What’s it for?” series to learn more.

Humanitarian demining follows extremely strict safety and quality standards: every square metre is carefully inspected to ensure that all mines and explosive remnants are removed, with procedures designed to maximise the safety of deminers. Conducted only in areas where fighting has ceased, humanitarian demining is carried out in strict adherence to the humanitarian principles of neutrality, independence and impartiality, protecting all civilians without distinction.

Military demining, by contrast, takes place in combat zones with specific tactical objectives and methods.

Yes. FSD has a team of mine detection dogs supporting demining operations in Ukraine, especially in areas contaminated by large amounts of metallic debris, where metal detectors are less effective. Meet our four-legged deminers.

No. FSD does not currently work with rats or bees in its demining operations.

FSD runs explosive ordnance risk education sessions in schools and contaminated villages. The aim is to prevent accidents by informing the public about how to react when encountering a suspicious object. Information sessions are also provided online and through dedicated social media channels. What does risk education involve?

On average, clearing one square metre costs around one Swiss franc. With 100 francs, it is therefore possible to make around 100 square metres safe. However, the exact cost depends on many factors such as the type of terrain and the nature of contamination. Each square metre requires time-consuming and meticulous work, often centimetre by centimetre, involving skilled specialists, adapted equipment and teams systematically accompanied by ambulances ready to intervene in case of an accident.

Humanitarian deminers follow very strict safety rules to maximise protection. They move forward centimetre by centimetre, sweeping each area three times with their detector before advancing. Regular breaks ensure focus, and metal detectors are tested every 15 minutes. When an explosive device is identified, an explosive ordnance disposal expert is immediately called to intervene safely. Discover our clearance procedure.

A mine is a device designed to be placed under, on or near the ground or another surface and to explode due to the presence, proximity or contact of a person or a vehicle (Ottawa Treaty, 1997).

There are two categories:

Unexploded ordnance: an explosive device that has been primed, fuzed, armed or otherwise prepared for use. It was previously dropped, launched or projected and remains unexploded due to malfunction, deliberate design or any other reason. (CCW Protocol V on Explosive Remnants of War, 2006).

Abandoned explosive ordnance: an explosive munition that has not been used during an armed conflict, that has been left behind or discarded by a party to the conflict, and that is no longer under the control of the party that left it behind or discarded it. Abandoned explosive ordnance may have been primed, fuzed, armed or otherwise prepared for use. (CCW Protocol V on Explosive Remnants of War, 2006).

Explosive devices that are not produced industrially to military standards but fabricated in an improvised way are referred to as improvised explosive devices (IEDs). In mine action, “improvised mines” are those IEDs that function by being triggered by the presence, proximity or contact of a person or vehicle, in the same way as conventional anti-personnel mines.

Demining requires significant technical expertise and financial resources. Many affected countries do not have the necessary capacity to conduct operations alone. To address this challenge, FSD runs projects that strengthen local demining capacities. Learn more.

More than 160 countries have ratified the Ottawa Convention and committed not to use anti-personnel mines. However, not all states are parties to the treaty, and many non-state armed groups continue to lay mines, often improvised. It is important to note that the Ottawa Convention only bans anti-personnel mines, not anti-vehicle mines.

As for explosive remnants of war, they are an inevitable consequence of any armed conflict: every war leaves behind unexploded ordnance that can remain dangerous for generations.

Every year, landmines and explosive remnants of war kill and injure thousands of people worldwide (over 5,000 in 2024), the vast majority of them civilians. Half of the civilian victims are children. These figures highlight the vital importance of demining operations and explosive ordnance risk education to prevent such tragedies.

No. However, unexploded ordnance still exists, particularly from the two World Wars. These old devices can present a localised danger, especially during construction work or farming. If a suspicious object is found, it is essential not to touch it and to contact the cantonal police immediately, who will alert the relevant services.

Landmines and explosive remnants of war have no expiry date: they can remain active for decades or even centuries. Devices from the First and Second World Wars are still being found today and may become increasingly unstable over time. It is therefore essential to remain vigilant and never touch or move a suspicious object.

Before demining starts, FSD deploys survey teams to assess the level of contamination and identify the types of explosive devices present. The information collected is then shared with national authorities, who determine priorities based on the impact for communities: access to homes, schools, farmland or essential infrastructure. Discover how survey missions work.

Yes, weather plays an important role in demining. In winter, when the ground is frozen and covered with snow, operations are suspended. This pause allows deminers to take part in training, maintain equipment or mark hazardous areas. In contrast, in some countries, extreme heat also affects operations, requiring teams to start work very early and take frequent breaks to avoid exhaustion.

No, FSD does not process unsolicited applications. Our job openings correspond to very specific profiles tailored to precise contexts. All our vacancies are published on our dedicated page: job offers. 

To see our current vacancies and apply, please visit our job offers page.

With the exception of a few international experts, FSD employs only staff directly in the countries where it operates, to provide employment opportunities and transfer skills to local populations. If you are a national of one of FSD’s countries of operation, you can contact the relevant national office via our contact page.

Yes, FSD accepts international profiles at its headquarters, provided that candidates hold a valid work permit for Switzerland. For young professionals, the “Young Professional Agreement” concluded with 14 countries makes it possible to obtain a temporary permit of up to 18 months in order to gain initial work experience related to their studies. More information.

We occasionally recruit interns in our Geneva office, in particular within the communications and fundraising departments. All vacancies are published on our website: job offers.

 Yes. Whether you are available for just a few hours a year or on a more regular basis, you can support us during our events, information stands and presentations through Genève Bénévolat. You can also independently organise a fundraiser, a sporting event or any other initiative, and become an ambassador for the fight against landmines, contact us.

There are many ways to support FSD. You can:

• Make a secure online donation here 
• Make a postal transfer
• Make a bank transfer
• Set up a Direct Debit / LSV
• Donate via QR invoice
• Donate via Twint
• Leave a legacy (bequest)
• Donate in a foreign currency

FSD uses the secure RaiseNow platform. Visit our donation page to choose your amount and frequency, and select your preferred payment method.

You can choose to make a postal transfer:

IBAN: CH31 0900 0000 1750 3036 5
Bank: PostFinance
Account holder: FSD
SWIFT/BIC:POFICHBEXXX

Or a bank transfer:

IBAN: CH70 0483 5081 8341 7100 0
Bank: UBS, Genève
Account holder: FSD
SWIFT/BIC:CRESCHZZ80A

To receive an LSV (bank) or Direct Debit (PostFinance) form, please contact our donor relations team on +41 22 562 41 92 or at donors@fsd.ch.

A QR invoice is a simple, fast and cost-effective way to donate—also the method with the lowest transaction/processing fees.

• Mobile e-banking: Download your bank’s mobile app, scan the Swiss QR code using the QR reader function, and make your donation with just a tap.
• Online e-banking: log in to your bank, scan the QR code with your reader/webcam or copy the details from the QR invoice. 
• At the counter: The QR invoice works like a payment slip that can be processed at the Post Office, your bank, an ATM or through an agent. The staff on site will handle it for you, allowing you to make your donation by debit card or in cash. Please note that if you make your payment at a Post Office counter, additional fees will be charged to FSD depending on the amount of your donation. We therefore encourage you to use mobile or online banking whenever possible. 

To receive a QR invoice, contact us on +41 22 562 41 92 or donors@fsd.ch. 

Twint allows you to make a donation easily, whether as a one-time or recurring contribution.

• Go to our online donation page, complete the form and choose Twint as your payment method.
• On a computer: a QR code will appear. Scan it with your Twint app to validate the payment. 
• On a phone: select your bank’s Twint app when prompted. You’ll be redirected to confirm the payment, then back to the donation page for confirmation. 

For a recurring donation, select your preferred frequency (e.g., monthly). Your donation will then be triggered automatically.

You can also contact us on +41 22 562 41 92 or donors@fsd.ch.

Yes. We also accept donations in euros. You can:

• Make an online donation on our dedicated page. Before choosing the amount, click  “Change currency” to switch to euros. 
• Make a transfer to:

IBAN: CH36 0483 5081 8341 7200 0
Bank: UBS
Account holder: FSD
SWIFT/BIC: CRESCHZZ80A

If you would like a Swiss tax receipt, please include your full name and postal address in the payment reference. Note: this receipt is recognised only by the Swiss tax authorities.

Beyond financial donations, you can support FSD by organising a fundraiser, volunteering or taking part in other solidarity initiatives. Visit our dedicated page to learn more.

Yes—fundraisers are an effective way to support and raise awareness of our work. Visit our dedicated page ( link) for ideas and examples. To discuss this directly with us or to obtain more information, you can contact us at +41 22 562 41 92 or by email at donors@fsd.ch.

For information about funding specific projects, visit our dedicated page or contact us on +41 22 506 86 46 or philanthropy@fsd.ch.

For details on funding specific projects, visit our dedicated page or contact us on +41 22 506 86 46 or philanthropy@fsd.ch.

FSD’s humanitarian programmes are financed by a mix of private and public sources. We work to ensure every franc is used as effectively as possible.

Private contributions are essential to safeguard our independence and speed of response; they complement public grants, which are usually tied to specific projects.

FSD manages its operating costs rigorously to maximise impact in the field. (2024 allocation):

• Administration: 5%
• Collecte de dons: 7%
• Opérations: 88%

For every 100 francs donated, 88 francs go to field operations, 7 francs to fundraising and 5 francs to management costs.

See our financial report for details.

Thank you for your wish to support people affected by mines and other explosives. Where possible, we encourage unrestricted donations: this flexibility allows us to act where needs are most urgent, including in less-publicised areas.

There are several meaningful non-financial ways to help: run with us, volunteer, or raise awareness about the dangers of landmines and explosive remnants of war. Visit our “Other ways to help” page to learn more.

ZEWO is the Swiss certification body for public-benefit non-profit organisations that raise funds.

FSD is committed to transparency and to maintaining public trust through open communication about how donations are used.

ZEWO certification strengthens donor confidence: its high standards—covering governance, aid delivery, finance and fundraising—are audited and confirmed by an independent external body.

To inform people in Switzerland and raise the funds needed for our projects, we use several channels, including:

• Face-to-face fundraising in the street
• Door-to-door outreach
• Digital campaigns
• Postal mailings (addressed and unaddressed)
• Call campaigns

Private contributions are crucial to ensure our independence and rapid response. They complement public grants, which are generally time-limited, project-specific and often involve lengthy approval processes. Regular private donations are especially valuable to improve emergency responsiveness and sustain our work.

Yes. For individuals, donations to a Swiss-based public-benefit organisation like FSD can be deducted from federal income tax.

In most cantons, donations can also be deducted from cantonal tax up to 20% of net income; some cantons require a minimum amount.

More information: ZEWO – Deducting donations from your taxes.

Each year, from late January to early February, we send tax receipts for donations made in the previous calendar year by post (or by email if we do not have your postal address).

If you haven’t received yours, please contact our donor relations team on +41 22 562 41 92 or donors@fsd.ch.

FSD attaches great importance to data protection. We use your personal data only to carry out our activities and fulfil our humanitarian mission. We never sell, rent or pass your data to third parties. Information you share is stored in our secure CRM (Sextant), hosted in Switzerland. We strictly comply with all legal data-protection requirements. More information: Privacy policy.

Yes. Our partner RaiseNow ensures a high level of security: all transactions are encrypted, your personal data is protected and your payment information is never shared with third parties. You can donate online with confidence.

By becoming a regular donor, you provide steady support to our field activities with a monthly, quarterly, half-yearly or annual donation. It’s simple: your contribution is automatically transferred via credit/debit card, LSV, Direct Debit, Twint or standing order.

To become a regular donor, you can sign up directly online or contact us by phone at +41 22 562 41 92 or by email at donors@fsd.ch.

If you haven’t received a confirmation email, please contact our donor relations team on +41 22 562 41 92 or donors@fsd.ch.

Because projects have limited durations, regular donations cannot usually be restricted to a single project. Unrestricted support is used where needs are most urgent and helps us deploy teams efficiently.

If your regular donation is taken via credit/debit card, LSV, Direct Debit or standing order, please contact us on +41 22 562 41 92 or donors@fsd.ch to update your information. Our line is available 10:00–13:00 and 14:00–17:00 (Mon–Fri).

If your regular donation is taken via credit/debit card, LSV, Direct Debit or standing order, please contact us on +41 22 562 41 92 or donors@fsd.ch to update your information. Our line is available 10:00–13:00 and 14:00–17:00 (Mon–Fri).

To change the amount, frequency, payment method or to cancel, please contact our donor relations team on +41 22 562 41 92 or donors@fsd.ch. Our line is available 10:00–13:00 and 14:00–17:00 (Mon–Fri).

By credit/debit card, Twint or PayPal: After completing your regular donation online, you will receive a confirmation email. This email will confirm that your donation has been processed, including its amount, frequency and payment method.

By LSV/Direct Debit: Once your debit authorisation has been approved by the bank, we will confirm the setup of your regular donation by sending you a thank-you email after the first payment has been made.

Feel free to contact our donor relations team on +41 22 562 41 92 or by email at donors@fsd.ch. Our toll-free number is available from 10:00 to 13:00 and from 14:00 to 17:00.

You can contact our donor relations team directly on +41 22 562 41 92 or by email at donors@fsd.ch. Our toll-free number is available Monday to Friday from 10:00 to 13:00 and from 14:00 to 17:00.

No, we do not have any door-to-door campaigns at the moment.

We understand your position and recognise that not everyone wishes to engage in conversation at their doorstep. You are free to decline such interactions, and your decision will always be respected.

Swiss Post allows certain senders (political parties, authorities and ZEWO-certified public-benefit organisations) to send unaddressed mail to all letterboxes, with or without a “No advertising” sticker. This enables us to reach people who may not yet know us.

You can make this request to our donor relations team by email at donors@fsd.ch or by phone at +41 22 562 41 92, Monday to Friday from 10:00 to 13:00 and from 14:00 to 17:00.

You can add “Fondation suisse de déminage (FSD)” to your will. There is no need to include our address or account number.

For any questions, visit our dedicated page or contact +41 22 506 86 46.

Yes. FSD will arrange valuation and sell such assets at a reasonable price.

Notary offices and law firms provide comprehensive assistance with estate matters.

No, you are under no obligation to inform us. If you do choose to, we can thank you personally and answer any questions confidentially.

You may keep it at home, but it might not be found. The simplest, most affordable option is to deposit a handwritten will with the competent local authority near your residence.

FSD France uses the secure RaiseNow platform. Visit our dedicated page to choose your amount and frequency, and your preferred payment method.

You can choose to make a bank transfer:

Bank: Société Générale, 29, Bd Hausmann, 75009 Paris, France
Account number: 3000 3035 7600 1500 1124 5
IBAN: FR76 3000 3035 7600 1500 1124 543
BIC: SOGEFRPP

Information: please note that  tax receipts are valid only for the French tax authorities.

Fundraising is an effective way to support and promote our work. On our dedicated page,, you’ll find examples and ideas to help you organise your own fundraiser. To discuss this directly with us or to obtain more information, you can contact us at +33 4 13 33 35 61 or by email at donors@fsdfrance.fr.

Yes. In general, 66% of your donation is deductible from French income tax, up to 20% of your taxable income.

To benefit, please keep the donation receipt for the relevant fiscal year.

Each year, between late February and March, we email receipts for donations made in the previous calendar year.

If you haven’t received yours, contact our donor relations team on +33 4 13 33 35 61 or donors@fsdfrance.fr.

Set up regular donations online, or contact us on +33 4 13 33 35 61 or donors@fsdfrance.fr.

If your regular donation is taken via credit card or direct debit, please contact +33 4 13 33 35 61 or donors@fsdfrance.fr to update your information. Our line is available 10:00–13:00 and 14:00–17:00.

If your regular donation is taken via credit card or direct debit, please contact +33 4 13 33 35 61 or donors@fsdfrance.fr to update your information. Our line is available 10:00–13:00 and 14:00–17:00.

To change the amount, frequency, payment method or to cancel, contact +33 4 13 33 35 61 or donors@fsdfrance.fr (10:00–13:00 / 14:00–17:00).

• By card/Google Pay: after setting up your regular donation online, you will receive a confirmation email (amount, frequency, payment method).
• By direct debit: we will send a thank-you email after the first debit.
• Feel free to contact our donor relations team on +33 4 13 33 35 61 or by email at donors@fsdfrance.fr. Our toll-free number is available from 10:00 to 13:00 and from 14:00 to 17:00.

Please contact our donor relations team on +33 4 13 33 35 61 or donors@fsdfrance.fr (Mon–Fri, 10:00–13:00 / 14:00–17:00).