Hama | Steps Syria for Community Development Foundation
Hama, May 18, 2025 – In a vital response to the challenges facing the return to normal life after the liberation of Syrian areas, the Steps Syria for Community Development Foundation organized an intensive awareness seminar titled “The Dangers of Mines and War Remnants” at the Engineers Syndicate Hall in Hama city. The seminar gathered 40 participants, including representatives from the Syrian Red Crescent, Civil Defense, local councils, human rights activists, engineers, and individuals from affected communities, with the aim of raising awareness and promoting prevention methods.
The Challenge of Safe Return: Mines, a Dangerous Legacy
After the liberation of most Syrian areas in December 2024 and the return of displaced persons, the widespread problem of mines and war remnants emerged as a direct threat to the lives of civilians, especially children, hindering efforts for stability and reconstruction. This seminar aimed to equip participants with the necessary knowledge and tools for safely dealing with these threats and to enhance cooperation among active institutions.
The training included comprehensive modules on the types of mines and war remnants, their humanitarian and economic impacts, mechanisms for identifying and avoiding contaminated areas, and procedures to follow when encountering a suspicious object. It also focused on the role of institutions in awareness and removal, and effective communication techniques in awareness campaigns.
Voice from the Field: Shared Challenges and Solutions
The sessions witnessed significant interaction and important interventions from representatives of active entities on the ground:
- Ms. Sara from the Syrian Red Crescent affirmed their full readiness to cooperate with Civil Defense.
- Ms. Rahaf from the Civil Defense pointed to ongoing mine clearance efforts in Hama countryside, where civilians are dying in agricultural lands surrounding former military areas.
- Representatives of the local councils in Morek and Karnaz expressed the continued presence of mines and their need for support in training their staff.
- A representative from the city of Halfaya raised a serious issue regarding a resident collecting mines in his home, posing a danger to neighbors.
These discussions highlighted the importance of enhancing coordination among various actors, the necessity of intensifying awareness and training efforts, and accelerating mine clearance in populated areas.
Outcomes and Recommendations for a Safe Community
The seminar yielded tangible results, as participants became more aware of the dangers of mines and prevention methods, and expressed their readiness to participate in field awareness campaigns and distribute awareness materials (brochures) in public places, schools, and return areas.
Recommendations included:
- Organizing advanced follow-up courses on mine risk awareness.
- Integrating psychological support sessions into future programs for those affected.
- Coordinating with local authorities to ensure access to the most affected areas.
- Preparing a joint field action plan with Civil Defense and the Red Crescent.
“Steps Syria” emphasizes that community awareness cannot be postponed, and that coordination between active entities and local communities is an essential element for the success of any field intervention, contributing to building a safer environment and enhancing reassurance among returning residents.
For more details: Steps for Community Development Center Holds Seminar on War Remnants and the Need for Their Removal
