Sri Lanka faces challenges as demining efforts stall amid U.S. aid review
- Demining efforts in Sri Lanka began in 2002 and have received significant funding from the U.S.
- The U.S. is currently reviewing its aid to Sri Lanka, which is vital for ongoing demining operations.
- The successful clearance of land mines is essential for community safety and fulfilling international obligations by 2028.
Sri Lanka, a nation emerging from a lengthy civil war, has been actively engaged in demining operations since 2002. These efforts gained momentum during a ceasefire period and have been supported by various nations, with the United States being the largest contributor, providing approximately 34% of the total funding of $250 million for demining projects. Despite the progress, large areas remain contaminated, impacting civilians who returned to resettle in their homeland after years of displacement. As of April 2025, Sri Lanka is under pressure to meet its obligation of eradicating land mines by 2028 as per the Ottawa Treaty, ratified in 2017. Following recent tensions, the U.S. has initiated a review of its aid to Sri Lanka, which has raised concerns regarding the future of demining projects. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Sri Lanka has pleaded for continued funding, relying on a decision expected by May 1, 2025, that will impact the nation's capability to proceed with land mine clearance. Activists and former land mine victims emphasize the urgency of these efforts, hoping the U.S. support will resume. They argue that clearing the land is essential for community safety and has a significant humanitarian impact. Thavarathnam Pushparani, who transitioned from a combatant in the Tamil Tigers to a deminer, embodies this struggle. She has dedicated her life to this cause, highlighting the importance of her work not only for her family but for the nation as a whole.