Continuation of international support for humanitarian mine action efforts in South Lebanon
An opening ceremony and site visit were held today in South Lebanon, marking both the launch of a new humanitarian cluster munition clearance project supported by the Republic of Slovenia and the completion of works supported by the Republic of Korea, both through ITF Enhancing Human Security. These activities are implemented by ITF’s partner, Norwegian People’s Aid (NPA), in close cooperation with the Lebanon Mine Action Center (LMAC).
In addition to the new Slovenian initiative that will span over two years, the event also highlighted the vital role of the Republic of Korea, whose support in recent years has been instrumental for humanitarian mine action in South Lebanon. Through funding provided via ITF, Korea enabled the clearance of 213,850 square meters of land, with 175 cluster munitions and 25 other items of unexploded ordnance safely destroyed, directly improving safety and livelihoods for local communities. This contribution laid the groundwork on which the new Slovenia-funded project will build, ensuring continuity and strengthening international cooperation in support of Lebanon.
Today’s event began at the Regional Mine Action Center (RMAC) in Nabatiyeh, where Brigadier General Roger El Khoury, Director of LMAC, welcomed participants and provided an overview of mine action efforts in the region. Distinguished guests included Dr Aleš Musar, Spouse of the President of the Republic of Slovenia; H.E. Mr Geon Gyusuk, Ambassador of the Republic of Korea to Lebanon; and Ambassador Tomaž Lovrenčič, Director of ITF.
The program continued in Chabriha with a ceremony attended by donors, partners, and representatives of the local community.
In his remarks, Dr Musar emphasized the importance of partnership and burden-sharing, stating: “Today is not only the start of a new project of clearing cluster munitions; it is also a testament to what can be achieved through partnership and shared responsibility. Slovenia is proud to be part of these life-saving activities.”
Ambassador Geon underlined Korea’s long-standing commitment to humanitarian mine action in Lebanon, stating: "The Republic of Korea has long been committed to peace and stability in Lebanon. Our Dongmyeong Unit, serving under UNIFIL, has worked closely with the Lebanese people to promote security and peace. This mine clearance project is a continuation of that steadfast commitment."
Ambassador Lovrenčič highlighted the significance of Slovenia’s and Korea’s support through ITF, noting the importance of partnership with Lebanon Mine Action Center and the professionalism of their staff. International partnership and burden sharing of costs of this vital clearance of explosive remnants of war are a testimony of long-term commitment to Lebanon, its peoples and their human security.
The Mayor of Chabriha, Mr Rida Aoun, welcomed the project on behalf of affected communities, while Mr Claudio Feo, NPA Country Director, spoke on behalf of the implementing partner.
NPA Lebanon presented technical clearance operations, non-technical survey, explosive ordnance risk education, rubble assessment, and the direct impact of clearance for affected communities. Attendees also observed a practical demonstration of clearance procedures and visited display stands prepared by NPA teams. As a sign of hope, the participants planted a tree in the area, which was previously contaminated with cluster munitions and cleared during these activities.
The launch of the Slovenia-funded project represents both a continuation and an expansion of international efforts to address cluster munition and unexploded ordnance contamination in Lebanon, combining the strong legacy of Korean support with Slovenia’s new contribution to help secure a safer future for affected communities.