Women Deminers: Courage in Conflict Zones
CISR
This headline is brought to you by the Center for International Stabilization and Recovery (CISR) which works to support resilience and recovery in global communities affected by war and conflict.
(Mines Advisory Group) Across the world, women are increasingly taking on the dangerous task of clearing landmines and unexploded bombs, a job traditionally held by men. In northern Iraq, Kurdish women work alongside Arab and Yazidi colleagues to clear landmine-contaminated areas left by decades of conflict. MAG (Mines Advisory Group) has been working in Iraq since 1992, tackling the immense landmine problem. Women like Avan, Siham, and Sanaria share their experiences, highlighting the physical and emotional challenges they face.
Avan, an electrical engineer, speaks of the close-knit bond among deminers. Siham, who survived ISIS occupation in Mosul, is determined to rebuild her life and help clear explosives. Sanaria, a former lab technician, combines her love for the outdoors with her demining work. These women not only defy traditional gender roles but also make significant contributions to humanitarian mine action, risking their lives to ensure the safety of their communities.
