Socio-Economic Impact Study of Danchurchaid Mine Action in Kosovo, July 1999-December 2001

This report seeks to assess, measure and visualise the socio-economic impact of DCA mine action in Kosovo 1999-2001. For DCA Kosovo represents the first experience of direct implementation of mine action intervention and it did so within the unique context that mine action agencies found themselves in Kosovo.

This study documents the wide range of mine action activities that have successfully taken place in the last 30 months. It identifies the probable, and in some cases definite social and economic impact but is very aware of the limitations in accuracy that a study of this kind can attain. It is both early to assess postclearance land use and difficult to quantify both the social implications of clearance and the secondary, ‘knock-on’ benefits that will accrue. The social and economic findings are therefore conservative and represent what can be substantiated by research and available data.

This study shows a varied and complex range of social and economic benefits resulting from a relatively short intervention by a small team. These illustrate the considerable potential benefits of targeted mine action programmes.