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Myanmar

UNICEF expresses sadness over death of a child by explosive device

Yangon, 22 December 2017 - UNICEF Myanmar expresses deep sadness and concern over the tragic death of a 12 year-old boy caused by an explosive device in Muse Township, Northern Shan State, on 19th December. The deadly event also injured four other children aged 8, 9, 10 and 11 years who remain in Lashio Township hospital.

“At this tragic moment, our thoughts go to the families. We must do everything to reduce exposure to landmines and explosive remnants of war, and provide the necessary long-term support services to survivors” urged June Kunugi, UNICEF Representative to Myanmar

In at least nine States and Regions of Myanmar, landmines and Explosive Remnant of War (ERW) are left behind from armed conflict or placed intentionally, continuing to cause harm to vulnerable populations, especially children and women.

In 2017, at least eight children have lost their lives and more than 37 have been severely injured from landmines and ERW. Over the past two years, there has been a new victim of landmines, on average, every three days. One out of every three victims is a child.

UNICEF calls on all parties to immediately stop laying new landmines and the Myanmar Government to ratify the Mine Ban Treaty. Addressing the scourge of landmines must also take centre stage in the peace process and national strategies promoting sustainable development.

UNICEF in Myanmar

UNICEF has been working with the Government and the people of Myanmar since 1950. In partnership with the Government and the civil society, UNICEF’s current focus of work aims at reducing child mortality, improving access and quality of education and protecting children from violence, abuse and exploitation. For more information about UNICEF and its work in Myanmar.
Please visit: https://www.unicef.org/myanmar.
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For more information contact:

Htet Htet Oo, Communication Officer, Advocacy, Partnerships and Communication Section, UNICEF Myanmar, 09250075238, hoo@unicef.org