Innovation Session: Mine Action in Ukraine Held in Kyiv
More than 100 Ukrainian and international experts, researchers, and technical specialists in mine action participated in the innovation session, dedicated to the use of innovative technologies in humanitarian demining. The event was jointly organized by the Geneva International Centre for Humanitarian Demining (GICHD) and the Ministry of Economy of Ukraine, with financial support from the European Union.
"Let’s create innovations, not just headlines. The results should be seen in the field, not only in flashy titles," said Ihor Bezkaravainyi, Deputy Minister of Economy of Ukraine, during the conference's opening.
Valon Kumova, Director of Operations at GICHD, emphasized the importance of rethinking approaches to solving demining challenges. "To truly harness the power of innovation, we must be bold, take risks, and not fear failure. It is through failure that we learn, and learning drives progress. The greatest risk is not failure, it's doing nothing. Innovation rarely emerges without testing, trials, and setbacks," he stressed.
During the innovation session, participants engaged in plenary discussions and thematic working groups. Topics included improving the efficiency of demining processes, testing and scaling innovations, enhancing national coordination, and establishing evaluation criteria for new technologies. Special attention was given to the application of multi-sensor detection systems for explosive ordnance, which are already in the testing and field trial phases, demonstrating promising results.
"Innovation makes humanitarian demining more effective, faster, and, most importantly, safer. What we achieve together in Ukraine will not only save lives and restore livelihoods here but also far beyond Ukraine. The lessons we learn, the methods we refine, and the technologies we develop will strengthen global mine action for the years to come," emphasized Rémi Duflot, Deputy Head of the EU Delegation to Ukraine.
The innovation session served as a key platform for bringing together experienced mine action practitioners, as well as experts in research and technology. As part of the session, participant teams presented innovative ideas and projects ready for further development and practical implementation. Particular attention was given to the use of modern technologies, including artificial intelligence, robotic systems, and data analytics, which can significantly enhance demining efficiency.
Matthias Schmale, UN Resident Coordinator, highlighted the importance of advancing innovation in mine action despite the ongoing full-scale war. "We should not forget that the war is ongoing. That being said, I have been very impressed with how Ukraine does not wait for the war to end to start the crucial work of recovery and development, including demining. I see truly impressive results, but challenges remain. So I hope that discussions will focus on how to use technology to make things more efficient, not just to speed them up," he noted.
At the event, Ukrainian and international developers also demonstrated innovative technologies used in humanitarian demining.