Kryvyi Rih develops a Charter on Mine Action Safety Culture

On 2 April 2026, in Kryvyi Rih, Ukraine, key stakeholders came together to define the core principles of a mine action safety culture. This collaborative effort led to the development of a draft Charter on Mine Action Safety Culture, aimed at strengthening safe behaviour practices in communities affected by explosive hazards.

The discussions took place during the forum “Mine Action Safety Culture: A Veteran Perspective”, organised by the Information and Education Hub “Kryvyi Rih. Demining”. The event was held within the framework of the project KRYTSIA: Support for the recovery of Kryvyi Rih Raion, funded by the Grand Duchy of Luxembourg and implemented by LuxDev, the Luxembourg Development Cooperation Agency, in partnership with Proman and the Business Development Fund (BDF).

The forum brought together a wide range of actors, including veterans, representatives of the State Emergency Service of Ukraine, public authorities, educators and civil society organisations. The objective was to align approaches to risk awareness and prevention.

Particular attention was given to the role of veterans as key agents of change. Drawing on their direct experience, they are uniquely positioned to promote safe behaviour.

Among the participants was Ihor Bezkaravainyi, Deputy Minister of Economy, Environment and Agriculture of Ukraine and a veteran himself, who emphasised the critical importance of public awareness: “Do not approach, do not touch, call 101”.

As a result of the discussions, participants outlined the key principles that will underpin the Charter. These include safe behaviour standards, as well as the roles and responsibilities of stakeholders and areas for cooperation between local authorities, educational institutions, emergency services, civil society and the veteran community.

Once finalised, the Charter will serve as a practical foundation for future educational and awareness-raising activities, contributing to improved safety in Kryvyi Rih communities affected by explosive hazards.

The KRYTSIA: Support for the recovery of Kryvyi Rih Raion is financed by the Grand Duchy of Luxembourg and implemented by LuxDev, the Luxembourg Development Cooperation Agency, Proman and the Business Development Fund (BDF).