Myanmar Tops Landmine Casualties in 2023 with 1,003 Victims, 22% Global Increase

Nov 20, 2024, 11:10 AM

Myanmar recorded the highest number of casualties from antipersonnel landmines in 2023, with 1,003 victims, surpassing countries like Syria and Afghanistan, according to the International Campaign to Ban Landmines. The global number of victims from landmines and explosive remnants of war increased by 22% in 2023, with more than 5,700 new victims, 84% of whom were civilians. The true toll in Myanmar could be double or triple the reported estimate, highlighting the severity of the issue in the region. This surge in casualties is linked to the widespread use of landmines in conflicts like those in Myanmar and Ukraine, despite the Ottawa Treaty banning such weapons.