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Strong national strategies are most effective when developed consultatively, engaging not only mine action and ammunition management authorities, but also government ministries, national and international operators, and the broader UN and international community.

This inclusive approach identifies opportunities and challenges, ensuring that strategies address the needs and priorities on the ground. Through this collective effort strategies become more than just frameworks. They are holistic, grounded in national realities, aligned with local priorities, and designed for long-term success. They are the key avenue through which international commitments and obligations become localized.  

In 2024, the GICHD continued to support affected countries throughout this process with strategic advice and technical expertise. Through workshops and good practice sharing, the GICHD assisted countries throughout the strategic planning process from Libya and Yemen, just at the beginning of their strategy journeys, to Sri Lanka, now implementing its mine action completion strategy.  

Sri Lanka’s path to a mine-free future: a story of national ownership and strategy 

When Sri Lanka’s 30-year civil conflict ended in 2009, landmines remained a threat in people’s everyday lives, especially in the north and east of the country.  

“We used to have 212 casualties every year”, recalls Mr. M.M. Nayeemudeen, National Director for Mine Action. “Now it’s almost zero.” 

Now Sri Lanka has a completion strategy, meaning it is nearing the final stages of mine action work. Its mine action programme serves as a model of national ownership, transparency, and collaboration. 

"We are ready to share our success and best practices. If our story can save  even one life in another country, we'll be very happy."

Mr M.M. Nayeemudeen National Director for Mine Action, Sri Lanka

Libya: The beginning of the strategy journey 

Libya faces a significant challenge due to widespread contamination by explosive remnants of war and mines. In 2024, the Libya Mine Action Centre (LibMAC) requested the GICHD’s support. After a baseline assessment was conducted, a workshop brought together LibMAC and various stakeholders in Tunis for the first time. This event fostered relationships and laid the groundwork for future collaboration. The main outcome–a context-specific theory of change–will guide the development of Libya’s mine action strategy.

National strategies key stats:

  • 2 Strategies reviewed in Peru, Moldova
  • 1 Strategy developed in Peru
  • 3 Strategies launched in Kosovo, South Sudan, Ukraine
  • 3 Strategies implemented in Germany (GFFO), Sri Lanka, Ukraine
  • 1 Strategic planning process started in Libya
  • 1 baseline assessment on operational capacity in Libya

Back to the Annual Report 2024