DEMINING Meaning and
Definition
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Demining refers to the process of safely detecting, removing, and clearing land or areas that are contaminated with landmines or explosive remnants of war (ERW). It is a vital humanitarian activity aimed at reducing the threat and impact of landmines and other explosive hazards on civilians in conflict-affected regions.
Demining involves various techniques and tools, such as manual and mechanical clearance methods, to locate and remove these dangerous remnants from the ground. Highly trained deminers use metal detectors, mine detection dogs, or specialized equipment to identify and disarm landmines, ensuring the safety of both personnel and local populations.
The objective of demining is to restore affected areas to a state where they can be safely accessed, inhabited, and used for various purposes, such as agriculture, infrastructure development, or resettlement. Additionally, demining efforts contribute to the long-term rebuilding and development of communities affected by landmines. This crucial process not only saves lives but also helps create safer environments for individuals to rebuild their lives and promote socio-economic growth.
Demining operations require meticulous planning, technical expertise, and adherence to international humanitarian law and standards. Organizations such as the United Nations, national governments, non-governmental organizations, and specialized demining agencies collaborate to conduct demining activities around the world, aiming to eliminate the lethal legacy of landmines and ensure the well-being of affected communities.
Etymology of DEMINING
The word "demining" is a combination of two elements: "de-" and "mining".
The prefix "de-" is derived from the Latin word "de", meaning "from" or "away". It is commonly used as a prefix to indicate removal, reversal, or negation.
The word "mining" originates from the late 15th century Old French word "miniere", which means "to dig". It is derived from the Latin word "minare", which means "to work in mines".
When combined, "de-" and "mining" form "demining", which refers to the process of removing mines from an area. It specifically refers to the clearance and neutralization of landmines and unexploded ordnance (UXO) to ensure the safety of individuals and communities.
