Cypriot authorities have declared the buffer zone mine-free, following extensive demining efforts. Despite this achievement, remaining minefields in the Republic’s territory are strategically placed for defense purposes and not a threat to civilians.
Has Cyprus successfully removed land mines from the buffer zone?
Yes, Cypriot authorities have declared the buffer zone completely free of land mines, marking a significant step towards safety and peace. This success aligns with the Ottawa Convention’s goal to eliminate anti-personnel mines worldwide. Remaining minefields in the Republic’s territory are part of the defense strategy and are not a threat to civilians.
A Landmark Achievement
Sources from within the Cypriot government proclaimed a significant milestone this past Saturday: the complete removal of land mines from the buffer zone. This initiative has been a part of the broader efforts to ensure safety and promote peace within the region. The demining process, as confirmed by the Cyprus News Agency (CNA), indicates that the Greek Cypriot side has successfully completed this task. This milestone underscores the region’s commitment to the Ottawa Convention, which seeks the elimination of anti-personnel mines globally.
While the buffer zone is now clear, it was emphasized that remaining minefields within the Republic are part of its defense strategy. These areas are reportedly safe and are deemed necessary for ongoing security measures. The government has reassured the public that these minefields do not pose a danger to civilians, as they are strategically placed and well-managed.
The Demining Process
The demining efforts have been extensive and thorough. The United Nations Peacekeeping Force in Cyprus (Unficyp) had previously estimated around 7,000 mines across the entire island. These mines, remnants of turbulent times from the years 1963, 1964, and 1974, had persisted for decades, posing a latent threat to both people and wildlife. It’s a well-known fact that over time, mines do not become inactive; rather, they can become increasingly unstable and dangerous.
The UN has been instrumental in addressing this issue through persistent and dedicated demining operations. Between 2004 and 2011 alone, the Mine Action Centre cleared a staggering total of 27,000 mines, releasing approximately 11 square kilometers of land back to the people as safe territory. The UN Mine Action Service (Unmas) has been a key player since July 2016, offering specialized knowledge and support in both planning and field operations.
Ongoing Security Measures
With anti-personnel mines eradicated from the buffer zone, the focus remains on the anti-tank mines that are still in place within the Republic’s territory. These mines serve a specific defensive role and are maintained in locations where civilian interaction is unlikely. The Cypriot authorities maintain that such measures are essential for national security and are managed responsibly to mitigate risks to civilian life.
However, the sources noted that any remaining mines, particularly those not disclosed during the demining initiative, likely belong to the Turkish military. These could be within controlled minefields or held in storage. The implication here is clear: while the Greek Cypriot side has taken measurable steps towards mine eradication, the issue of landmines on the island is not fully resolved until all parties involved commit to similar actions.
UN’s Role in Cyprus
The UN’s role has been pivotal in the quest to eliminate landmines from Cyprus. Their peacekeeping forces and specialized agencies have not only removed the immediate threats but also worked to educate and bring awareness to the dangers of landmines. The successful clearance of land from mines has allowed for the restoration of safe access to land which can now be repurposed for agriculture, development, and conservation efforts, thus contributing to the island’s socio-economic recovery and stability.
Has Cyprus successfully removed land mines from the buffer zone?
Yes, Cypriot authorities have declared the buffer zone completely free of land mines, marking a significant step towards safety and peace. This success aligns with the Ottawa Convention’s goal to eliminate anti-personnel mines worldwide. Remaining minefields in the Republic’s territory are part of the defense strategy and are not a threat to civilians.
What is the significance of Cyprus declaring the buffer zone mine-free?
The removal of land mines from the buffer zone in Cyprus is a landmark achievement signifying a commitment to safety and peace within the region. This accomplishment aligns with international efforts to eliminate anti-personnel mines and highlights progress towards the goals of the Ottawa Convention. The demining process has been extensive and thorough, ensuring the safety of civilians and wildlife in the area.
Are there still minefields remaining in the Republic’s territory?
Yes, there are still strategically placed minefields in the Republic’s territory that are part of the defense strategy. These minefields are not a threat to civilians as they are managed responsibly and are located in areas where civilian interaction is unlikely. The Cypriot authorities have reassured the public that these remaining minefields are safe and necessary for ongoing security measures.
What role has the UN played in the demining efforts in Cyprus?
The United Nations has played a pivotal role in the demining efforts in Cyprus, with the UN Peacekeeping Force in Cyprus (Unficyp) and the UN Mine Action Service (Unmas) leading operations to remove land mines from the island. The UN’s involvement has not only focused on clearing mines but also on educating and raising awareness about the dangers of landmines. The successful clearance of land mines has allowed for the restoration of safe access to land, contributing to the socio-economic recovery and stability of the island.
