Landmine Removal Group Wins Top Prize
BEIRUT, Lebanon - Mofida Majzoub, a former wedding photographer, has traded her camera for a metal detector as she works to remove landmines from contaminated areas in Lebanon. Her work is part of The Mines Advisory Group (MAG), which won the Conrad N. Hilton Humanitarian Prize this year.
According to the Landmine and Cluster Munition Monitor, an annual report published by a consortium of non-profit groups, more than 5,700 people were killed or wounded by landmines last year, with civilians making up the vast majority of victims. The group estimates that there are approximately 110 million unexploded landmines worldwide, enough to encircle the planet twice.
Majzoub's decision to switch careers was motivated by a desire to help those living in areas contaminated with landmines. "I saw firsthand the impact these mines had on communities," she said. "People were afraid to leave their homes or work their fields because of the risk of stepping on a mine."
The Mines Advisory Group has been working to remove landmines for over 35 years, operating in more than 70 countries worldwide. Their efforts have made a significant impact, with millions of people benefiting from safe and secure communities.
"We're proud to be recognized by the Conrad N. Hilton Humanitarian Prize," said MAG's CEO, Guy Willoughby. "This award is a testament to the dedication and hard work of our teams around the world."
The prize, one of the most prestigious humanitarian awards, recognizes organizations that have made significant contributions to alleviating human suffering.
MAG's work in Lebanon is just one example of their global efforts. In addition to removing landmines, they also provide training and support to local communities to help them rebuild and recover from conflict.
As the organization continues its work, it remains committed to its mission of making the world a safer place for all people. "We're not just removing mines," said Majzoub. "We're giving people their lives back."
Background
Landmines have been used in conflicts around the world, leaving behind a legacy of death and destruction long after the fighting stops. The effects of these mines can be seen in countries such as Cambodia, where an estimated 40% of the population still live in areas contaminated with landmines.
Additional Perspectives
The use of landmines has been widely condemned by the international community, with many countries signing onto treaties to ban their use. However, despite these efforts, millions of people continue to be affected by these deadly devices.
As MAG continues its work, it is clear that there is still much to be done. "We're not just removing mines," said Majzoub. "We're giving people their lives back."
Current Status and Next Developments
The Conrad N. Hilton Humanitarian Prize will provide MAG with a significant boost in funding, allowing them to continue their work on a larger scale. As for Majzoub, she remains committed to her new career path. "I'm proud to be part of an organization that is making a real difference in the world," she said.
The Mines Advisory Group's work will continue to be closely monitored by the international community as they strive to make the world a safer place for all people.
*Reporting by Npr.*
