Children mark the international mine awareness day in Tripoli with the United Nations

TRIPOLI—More than 300 Libyan children gathered with their parents at the Scouts Theatre Saturday in Tripoli to mark the International Day for Mine Awareness and Assistance in Mine Action under the theme “Invest in Peace, Invest in Mine Action.”

The event was organized jointly by the Mine Action Programme, a section of the United Nations Support Mission in Libya (UNSMIL), the Libyan Mine Action Centre, the Libyan Scout Movement, the Libya Peace Organization, and the Libyan Red Crescent. It aimed to raise awareness among children and their families of the risks posed by landmines, explosive remnants of war, and unsafe ammunition.

The day combined games, drawing, awareness activities, songs, and theatre performances centered on peace, safety, and protection. Children took part in activities that allowed them to express their hopes for a safer future. Their artwork and performances reflected themes of peace, resilience, and every child’s right to grow up in safety.

The Deputy Special Representative of the Secretary-General and Resident Coordinator in Libya, Ulrika Richardson, joined the children and their families during the event. Through practical and child-friendly activities, children, including 50 Syrian and Sudanese children, learned how to recognize suspicious objects, stay away from them, and report them to adults.

During the ceremony, DSRSG/RC Richardson highlighted the important role of schools but also parents in raising awareness helping children stay safe in light of the remaining explosive ordnance and unsafe ammunition. The role of mothers and fathers is essential in teaching children not to pick up unfamiliar objects they may encounter while playing outdoors, she said. 

She noted that one-third of the victims of explosive remnants of war in Libya in 2025 were children, underlining the need to strengthen risk education not only in schools, but also at home. 

While conflicts may end, the danger posed by explosive ordnance and unsafe ammunition often remains present on the ground and in urban neighborhoods, she said, adding that not only did explosives cause fatalities and physical injuries but also emotional trauma which needs to be addressed. 

DSRSG/RC Richardson reaffirmed the United Nations’ commitment to continue working with Libyan institutions, including the Libyan Mine Action Centre, as well as national and international partners, to address these risks across Libya.

The ceremony concluded with the distribution of awards to the children, adding a joyful close to the day.