As one of the most heavily contaminated countries in the world, Iraq grapples with the enduring legacy of past conflicts, including landmines and cluster munitions. Basra, in particular, stands as a stark reminder of this reality, with a pollution rate of 1,200 square kilometers (statistics by Directorate Mine of Action by 2024), making it one of the most contaminated cities globally.
Children are especially vulnerable to the dangers of war remnants. Over 519 children have been killed or injured in Iraq between 2017-2022 from explosive ordnance. (According to UNICEF).
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Source: ICRC