A Study of Scrap Metal Collection in Lao PDR

This report sets out a basic analysis of the components of the scrap metal trade, therelationship between the scrap metal trade and UXO accidents, and the different forms of response that currently work to mitigate such accidents. It also examines the humanitarian, economic, administrative and legal context that must necessarily frame any response to this issue. The study identifies certain key areas around which decisions will need to be made in any determination of the way forward. Key recommendations for the development of a strategy relate to the following areas:

Understanding the reality of the problem
There is insufficient data on the frequency of scrap-related casualties and on the
economic value of the scrap metal trade to rural communities.
There is a need to agree to a common definition of what forms of scrap metal/
ordnance are, or should be, subject to controls.
There are a range of issues associated with the growth of metal detector use among the rural population and different options could balance safety and local economic Controls over businesses present an opportunity for greater regulation of the scrap metal trade and control over the risks it generates.
  The structures of ordnance disposal
The availability and responsiveness of ordnance disposal capacity has a bearing
on how people choose to interact with ordnance contamination.
  Safety messages and community level solutions
Within the framework of an agreed strategy, more relevant safety messages could
be developed for risk education purposes. However, it should be recognised that
“message based” approaches are likely to have little impact. Greater emphasis
should be placed on supporting communities to manage these risks for themselves.
  Alternative incomes
Provision of alternative incomes could reduce reliance on scrap metal collection.
However, the scrap metal trade is economically very strong, making it difficult
for alternatives to compete.
  The role of UNICEF
There is a valuable role for UNICEF in promoting the development of strategic
responses to this issue in Lao PDR and in the region.
Although this paper was commissioned by UNICEF, a response to these issues must necessarily involve the coordinated efforts of a number of key institutions. The development of a coherent strategy is probably more important than rushing to undertake some form of response. While a multi-sectoral approach would be most effective, the different programmes being pursued need to be coherent and mutually supportive.