The Mines Advisory Group (MAG) today launches the Patrick Leahy Mine Action Fund, a new initiative dedicated to supporting life-saving landmine and unexploded ordnance clearance around the world.
The Fund honours former US Senator Patrick Leahy, one of the world’s most influential advocates for humanitarian mine action and the third-longest-serving senator in US history, celebrating his decades-long commitment to protecting civilians in conflict-affected areas.
Through this Fund, MAG will provide critical support to communities scarred by war, helping farmers return to their fields, reopening markets, and allowing children to walk to school safely.
Speaking about the Fund, Senator Leahy said: “Ridding the world of landmines and other unexploded munitions has been a longtime crusade of mine, and MAG has been an indispensable partner in that effort.
“We know that by training and equipping local deminers there is no limit to their ability to reclaim land once too dangerous to traverse or cultivate. Our job is to give them the resources they need, and that is the purpose of the Leahy Fund. I want to thank MAG for its leadership and am grateful to all who support this worthy effort.”
For more than three decades, Senator Leahy led US and international efforts to address the legacy of landmines and unexploded ordnance. His leadership ensured life-saving assistance reached more than 40 countries, helping communities recover after conflict and rebuild their futures.
In 1992, he authored the landmark legislation that halted the export of US anti-personnel landmines, and he remained a vocal advocate for a global ban on their use throughout his Senate career.
Landmines and unexploded bombs remain a threat long after wars end, crippling agriculture, blocking access to schools and hospitals, and putting entire communities at risk. Senator Leahy’s commitment has long been rooted in the belief that landmines are not just weapons of war, but weapons against peace.
The Patrick Leahy Mine Action Fund invites individuals, philanthropists, foundations, and corporations to help carry forward Senator Leahy’s life-long mission. Contributions will support landmine and unexploded ordnance clearance in places where critical funding gaps threaten to delay urgent clearance work, resources are scarce, conflict is ongoing, and communities urgently need safe land to rebuild their lives.
Darren Cormack, the Mines Advisory Group’s Chief Executive, said: “The launch of the Patrick Leahy Mine Action Fund is a fitting tribute to a leader whose vision has transformed humanitarian mine action worldwide. By providing vital resources to local deminers, the Fund will directly save lives, restore land for communities, and give people the opportunity to live free from fear. This Fund ensures Senator Leahy’s legacy will continue for generations to come.”
Shari Bryan, the Mines Advisory Group US’s Executive Director said: “The Patrick Leahy Mine Action Fund will enable the Mines Advisory Group to reach communities where the need is greatest, but where funding is often the most limited. Senator Leahy’s legacy is one of extraordinary impact, and we are honoured to help ensure his mission continues to grow.”
The launch of the fund follows the award of the Hilton Humanitarian Prize, the world’s biggest philanthropic award, to the Mines Advisory Group last year.
