Stephane Dujarric, spokesperson for the Secretary-General of the United Nations, says 64 incidents involving explosive remnants of war (ERW) and unexploded ordnance (UXO) have been recorded in eastern Afghanistan since the beginning of this year, resulting in 64 civilian casualties.
Dujarric said at a press briefing that Afghanistan remains one of the countries in the world with the highest number of casualties caused by unexploded ordnance.
The UN spokesperson said explosive remnants of war and unexploded ordnance continue to pose a serious threat to civilians in Afghanistan, particularly children.
According to Dujarric, the United Nations and its partners are working to raise awareness about the dangers of explosive remnants, clear contaminated areas and assist affected communities. However, severe funding shortages have affected these activities.
