DSNS Ukraine Holds Working Session with International Partners
At a working meeting centered on mine action, Ukraine's State Emergency Service (DSNS) showcased several digital solutions for humanitarian demining. This gathering highlighted the growing role of geospatial data in modern mine-action efforts. Roman Prymush, Deputy Head of the DSNS, attended the event, along with representatives from the UN Development Programme (UNDP) in Ukraine, FAO Ukraine, the Eastern Europe Foundation, and other partner organizations.
The agenda included several key topics, notably the status of the Register of Territories Contaminated or Likely Contaminated with Explosive Ordnance, which is currently under trial operation. The DSNS is launching a new project this year to establish the Register, with the aim of consolidating different activities into a single streamlined process.
“We shared with the partners the latest findings from our joint project on satellite imagery and demonstrated how the DSNS uses this data in practice. We also introduced the new initiative for this year—creating the Register of Territories Contaminated or Likely Contaminated with Explosive Ordnance.”
Roman Prymush, Deputy Head of the DSNS of Ukraine
The session also presented the results of an analysis of arable land use in Kyiv and Kharkiv regions for 2021–2026, carried out with satellite imagery. Participants discussed adding this new geographic information layer to the Register, which could significantly improve how data on contaminated areas is processed.
Roman Prymush stressed the significance of these initiatives, saying, “Our task is to make this data useful not only for DSNS needs, but for the entire state.” The meeting was an important step toward stronger international cooperation in humanitarian demining and greater exchange of experience in using digital technologies for this vital work.
The Importance of International Partnership
This meeting points to the growing importance of international cooperation in humanitarian demining in Ukraine, particularly as the need for safety on contaminated territories becomes ever more pressing. The introduction of advanced digital technologies, such as satellite imagery, can considerably boost the efficiency of demining and population protection, while also helping restore land for future use.
The involvement of international organizations creates opportunities for exchanging knowledge and experience, which is critical to ensuring the safety of residents in affected regions.