80 per cent of adolescents can identify explosive ordnance risks but too many expose themselves to dangers

KYIV, 4 April 2025 – Despite 80 per cent of adolescents being able to identify specific mine and explosive ordnance risks, more than half of those in contaminated regions might still engage in activities that expose them to the presence of deadly explosive ordnance and potential accidents, according to a UNICEF-led survey supported by the European Union’s Directorate-General for Civil Protection and Humanitarian Aid (ECHO). 

The findings reveal that adolescent boys, aged 14 to 17-years, are particularly affected as they tend to explore areas where explosive remnants of war are more likely to be found — such as in forests, near bodies of water and even abandoned military positions. Between February 2022 and March 2025, almost 80 per cent of the 110 children killed or injured due to mines and explosive remnants of war were boys, according to the Ministry of Defense of Ukraine.  

“The human cost of mines and explosive remnants of war is laid bare when it comes to children,” says Munir Mammadzade, UNICEF Representative to Ukraine. “Children, and boys in particular, face specific risks in areas littered with explosive ordnance. To save young lives we must sustain risk awareness education that fosters an understanding of the real dangers and a culture of safety,” adds Mammadzade. 

Approximately 23 per cent of Ukraine's territory is potentially contaminated, and the danger to children will exist for years, limiting access to schools and other essential services. Educational institutions and parents were cited in the survey as the primary sources of knowledge among children about risks posed by explosive remnants of war. 

On International Mine Awareness Day, UNICEF, and partners the Ministry of Education and Science, and State Emergency Service of Ukraine call for a national drive to promote safety among children and youth by highlighting the importance of mine safety rules. Materials based on and including the online course, ‘Delivering Effective Mine Safety Messages to Children, developed by the Cultural Platform of Zakarpattia in partnership with UNICEF, provide vital guidance and tips for parents, educators and children. 

The resources provide structured plans and tailored edutainment materials to help educators deliver lessons for children of all ages. With a focus on learning through play, they help children understand how to identify explosive threats, where they may be hidden, and how to respond safely. UNICEF has developed a comprehensive suite of edutainment materials on explosive ordnance risk education since 2014. 

In communities where children often lack access to in-person education due to safety concerns, UNICEF, in partnership with the Ministry of Interior Affairs and the State Emergency Service of Ukraine runs mobile safety classes. This joint initiative includes the use of specially equipped vehicles in which safety lessons are conducted for children. More than 185,000 children across 10 regions have been reached through this work since the end of 2023.  

UNICEF also provides holistic support to children who have sustained war-related injuries, including those caused by mines and explosive weapons. Together with partners, a UNICEF-supported child-focused survivor assistance programme provides tailored support to children affected based on needs, for example psychosocial, legal and cash support. The programme also promotes integration of children with disabilities into communities.    

UNICEF’s work with Government and civil society partners contributes to the second pillar of the National Mine Action Strategy, reducing the impact of explosive hazards on people’s lives and well-being.  

To better protect children and improve safe access to the essential services they rely on, UNICEF calls for partners and relevant authorities to: 

• Sustain commitment to support lifesaving explosive ordnance risk education within and outside of the formal school environment.
• Focus explosive ordnance clearance efforts on areas around schools, primary health care centers, child protection and other essential services that children rely on.
• Ensure child survivors are provided with access to integrated, tailored and sustained protection and recovery services.
• Promote and build a barrier free environment, with inclusive schools, communities and services for every child at its heart.  

##### 

Notes for editors: 

The ‘Survey of Mine Safety Awareness and Safe Behaviour Practices among Parents and Children aged 10 to 17’ included 25,500 respondents (12,750 parents and 12,750 adolescents). The survey was conducted by UNICEF and the Rating Group, with support from the European Union. 

‘How to Teach Children Mine Safety’ is a free online course for educators, psychologists, social workers, child protection specialists, volunteers, and community activists. Participants receive a certificate upon completion.

Factsheet on latest data on mine and explosive ordnance risks in Ukraine and UNICEF’s prevention and response efforts. 

Multimedia materials available at spilnoteka.org.