Landmines and Youth

Up to 30% of mine victims each year are youth aged 15 or under. In Cambodia, from May 2001- April 2001, 197 children under age 15 were injured or killed by landmines and unexploded ordnance.

Why are so many youth injured by mines?

Every day activities become dangerous in a mine-affected area. Often youth collect firewood and scrap metal, take animals to graze, go to the market, pick fruit - all these places could be mined, putting youth at great risk.

Many youth are injured by landmines designed to look like toys. Some cannot resist the temptation to play with these new "toys" even if they are aware of the dangers.

Young children can't see mines like taller adults can, and they may not be able to read or recognize warning signs as they stray off safe routes while playing games or taking short-cuts.

How do landmines affect youth?

In some cases, the life of a child is severely restricted by the presence of mines, even when it is only suspected that mines are planted somewhere. Parents may stop sending their children to school and prevent them from doing their daily tasks.

Lack of schooling leads to a loss of education and employment skills training that may make it more difficult for youth to find jobs when they become adults.

Because of their size, landmines hurt youth more severely than adults, so a greater number may die from landmine injuries. A blast mine might destroy the leg of an adult, but it can kill a small child. Also, children's bodies may not be able to handle the loss of blood or the shock caused by a mine blast.