Since 1997, anti-personnel landmines have been prohibited by the United Nations via a treaty that was signed by more than 150 countries. Unfortunately there are a ton of them still active all over the world.

As Martin Armstrong of Statista reveals, Landmine and Cluster Munition Monitor classifies large swathes of the world as being contaminated to some degree with land mines. The negative effects of their presence can not be understated: "Both landmines and explosive remnants of war pose a serious and ongoing threat to civilians. These weapons can be found on roads, footpaths, farmers’ fields, forests, deserts, along borders, in and surrounding houses and schools, and in other places where people are carrying out their daily activities. They deny access to food, water, and other basic needs, and inhibit freedom of movement. They endanger the initial flight and prevent the repatriation of refugees and internally displaced persons (IDPs), and hamper the delivery of humanitarian aid."

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Unfortunately, those 150 countries are virtue-signalling frauds who have no intention of maintaining the ban if they get into a serious war.

Back in the late 2000s I was trained in the planning and laying of minefields. Just, you know, in case we change our minds one day.

Landmines, used responsibly in marked obstacles covered by observation and fire, are not disproportionately dangerous to civilians.

Landmines, used as "nuisance" minefields around buildings and trail junctions, are one of humanity's most evil inventions.

Scatterable, self-neutralising landmines are supposed to be the first kind, but always result in some of the second.

These tactics work, even against a greatly superior enemy. Landmines are just too cheap and too useful for any ban to stick.

My old boss had worked in EOD and mine clearance, one of the worst jobs in the world. Massive respect to anyone with the nerves for it!

I hope governments and NGOs can fund research into better de-mining techniques...