Japan Mine Action Service (JMAS) is an NGO that works with local people to dispose of landmines, unexploded ordnance and other explosives left behind after wars and conflicts. It began work in Cambodia in 2002 and was founded mainly by retired members of Japan's Self-Defense Forces, carrying out highly specialized clearance work.
Its current countries of activity include Cambodia, Micronesia, Palau and Senegal. According to monthly reports on its website, in Micronesia it carries out oil recovery work at sea and transfers technology to state government staff; in Palau it runs a project that uses the disposal of explosive remnants to support public infrastructure; and in Senegal it provides capacity-building support.
Its activities are funded mainly by donations and ODA. The organization offers membership, corporate membership and donation options, and accepts applications for training, visits, lectures and interviews.
Key points
- Highly specialized mine and ordnance clearance carried out together with local people
- Work extends beyond clearance to community recovery and marine environment improvement
- Monthly country-by-country activity reports are available on the website
Why this organization's work stands out
Clearing landmines and unexploded ordnance has been considered difficult for citizen groups because of the danger and expertise involved. JMAS takes on this field as humanitarian aid in which Japan's contribution can be seen on the ground.
Because activity reports are organized by country and month on the website, readers can learn concretely what is happening in each place. With contact points for lectures and visits, it is also an organization that is easy to approach for those who become interested.
Editor's comment
It made me think again about people who live alongside danger underfoot even after a conflict has ended.
Activity updates from each country and ways to support are introduced on the official website. Please take a look.