Can Former LTTE Combatants and Army Personnel Collaborate to Clear Sri Lanka's Mines?

Mines Advisory Group (MAG) operates in Sri Lanka, focusing on demining efforts across various regions of the country. With a workforce of around 730, including a significant percentage of women, MAG is committed to addressing the legacy of conflict by clearing land contaminated by mines. The organisation faces challenges in securing funding amidst shifting donor priorities, particularly as humanitarian aid is increasingly directed to active conflict zones. MAG is striving to meet the Sri Lankan government's goal of a mine-free country by 2028, though realistic estimates suggest completion may extend to 2030 or beyond, depending on funding and the discovery of new contaminated areas.

Last updated: 03 October 2023 (BST)

What’s happening now

MAG is currently engaged in extensive demining operations across northern and eastern Sri Lanka, areas heavily impacted by decades of conflict. Despite being one of the larger operations in the region, MAG faces significant challenges due to reduced funding and the realities of shifting donor priorities. The organisation is working tirelessly to meet the Sri Lankan government's ambitious target of becoming mine-free by 2028, but the need for realistic timelines and continued donor engagement is becoming increasingly critical.

Key takeaways

MAG operates in Sri Lanka with a workforce of approximately 730, including 24% women.
The organisation is facing funding reductions as donor priorities shift to active conflicts.
Completion of demining operations may realistically extend to 2030 or beyond.
MAG is committed to local hiring, employing many ex-combatants and survivors of the conflict.
Training programmes are being established to help deminers transition to new livelihoods post-clearance.

Timeline: how we got here

MAG's operations in Sri Lanka have evolved significantly since the end of the civil war in 2009. Here is a brief timeline of key milestones:

2002-2003: Initial funding begins; MAG establishes operations in Sri Lanka.
2009: End of the civil war; increased focus on demining in conflict-affected areas.
2021: MAG reports around 45 demining teams actively working.
2023: Number of operational teams reduced to 30 due to funding constraints.
2028: Sri Lanka aims to be mine-free, although extensions for completion are anticipated.

What’s new vs what’s known

New today/this week

MAG is currently assessing the impact of funding reductions and is in discussions with its donors about maintaining support. The organisation is also exploring alternative livelihoods training for deminers as part of its exit strategy.

What was already established

MAG has a long-standing commitment to demining efforts in Sri Lanka, employing local staff, many of whom have personal ties to the conflict. The organisation has consistently been one of the largest demining operators in the region.

Impact for the UK

Consumers and households

The impact of MAG's work is felt beyond the immediate area of operations, as clearing land of mines opens up opportunities for agriculture and tourism, contributing to local economies. For UK citizens, there can be an indirect benefit through increased stability and reduced refugee situations.

Businesses and jobs

With the reduction of contaminated land, opportunities for businesses such as tourism and agriculture will increase, potentially leading to job creation. This is particularly important in the northern and eastern regions, which have faced economic hardships since the civil war.

Policy and regulation

The UK’s financial support for demining efforts may be affected by shifting priorities towards refugee support and active conflict zones. This could reduce the resources available for organisations like MAG working in Sri Lanka.

Numbers that matter

725-730: Total workforce at MAG in Sri Lanka, with 24% being women.
30: Number of demining teams currently operational, down from 45.
2002-2003: Year funding began for MAG's operations in Sri Lanka.
2030-2031: Revised estimate for a mine-free Sri Lanka, depending on funding.
1 million: Approximate number of people who have resettled on previously contaminated land.

Definitions and jargon buster

MAG: Mines Advisory Group, a non-governmental organisation focused on humanitarian mine action.
Demining: The process of clearing land of landmines and unexploded ordnance.
LTTE: Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam, a militant organisation that was active during the Sri Lankan civil war.
National Mine Action Centre (NMAC): The governmental body overseeing mine action in Sri Lanka.

How to think about the next steps

Near term (0–4 weeks)

MAG is focusing on maintaining donor relationships and securing commitments for continued funding. Efforts will be made to communicate the importance of demining to stakeholders.

Medium term (1–6 months)

As funding stabilises, MAG will implement training programmes for deminers to ensure they can transition successfully to new livelihoods post-clearance.

Signals to watch

Changes in donor funding announcements and priorities.
Updates from the Sri Lankan government regarding mine clearance timelines.
Statistics on the number of cleared areas and resettled populations.

Practical guidance

Do

Support initiatives that promote awareness of mine risks in affected areas.
Engage with local and international NGOs to understand ongoing demining efforts.
Advocate for continued international support for demining operations.

Don’t

Ignore the importance of demining in post-conflict recovery.
Assume all contaminated land is known; new areas may still be discovered.
Overlook the need for training and support for deminers transitioning to new jobs.

Checklist

Stay informed about MAG's work and progress in Sri Lanka.
Understand the implications of mine clearance for local communities.
Monitor donor announcements related to humanitarian aid.
Support local initiatives aimed at rebuilding communities post-clearance.
Engage with educational programmes that inform about landmine risks.

Risks, caveats, and uncertainties

MAG's future operations in Sri Lanka could be significantly impacted by fluctuating funding levels, especially as global humanitarian priorities shift. There is also uncertainty regarding the discovery of new contaminated areas, which could further extend the timeline for achieving a mine-free status. Ensuring the safety and welfare of deminers post-clearance remains a critical concern, as alternative livelihood options will need to be developed.

Bottom line

MAG's work in Sri Lanka is crucial for the country's recovery and development. However, realistic timelines for mine clearance must be established in light of funding uncertainties. Continued donor commitment is essential to ensure that demining efforts can be sustained, allowing communities to safely reclaim their land and livelihoods.

FAQs

What is MAG's role in Sri Lanka?

MAG focuses on demining operations in Sri Lanka, helping to clear land contaminated by mines and unexploded ordnance to facilitate safe resettlement and agricultural development.

How many teams does MAG currently have in Sri Lanka?

MAG currently has around 30 operational demining teams in Sri Lanka, a reduction from 45 due to funding constraints.

What is the timeline for a mine-free Sri Lanka?

While the Sri Lankan government aims for a mine-free status by 2028, realistic estimates suggest that completion may extend to 2030 or 2031, depending on funding and the discovery of new contaminated areas.