NikVesti and BBC Media Action implement a mine safety awareness program in the Mykolaiv Region

An operator films the work of deminers of the State Emergency Service in the Mykolaiv region, photo by NikVesti

In February 2024, the online media NikVesti became a partner of the international organization «BBC Media Action» for cooperation in a project to inform about mine safety in the South of Ukraine.

Mykolaiv Oblast remains one of the most mined areas, and we receive information almost every day about accidents where people are hit by landmines in their villages and fields.

The editor-in-chief of NikVesti Kateryna Sereda said that in total, during the period of cooperation, more than 20 materials have already been published on the website and other resources of the publication, which were related to the topic of handling explosive objects.

«Our role in this project is to influence people's consciousness, to remind them of the danger of mines and other explosive objects. These people cannot stop living where they live - in villages or cities that were under Russian occupation or were under constant shelling by Russian troops. We have to remind these people, in particular, using the example of those who have already suffered, how to behave if you find a mine, whether you can go to the forest, fields, or other mined areas. Therefore, our task is to protect them as much as possible with our word — to inform and influence them through news and reports,» Kateryna Sereda shared.

NikVesti journalists while working in the Mykolaiv region

NikVesti journalists while working in the Mykolaiv region

NikVesti journalists while working in the Mykolaiv region

BBC Media Action reported that two editions from Ukraine — NikVesti and News of Donbas — were selected to participate in their project. Speaking about the goal of the project, the partners noted: «Among the population, there is a need for practical, clear information about what to do if you come across a mine. The media is uniquely placed to reach people quickly and on a large scale, providing clear advice on what to do if they see a mine.»

At the same time, it is noted that mine awareness and understanding of the risks of dealing with mines and explosive objects in Ukraine are already quite high.

Also as part of the project, BBC Media Action experts conducted training for editorial staff on the algorithm of actions after detecting mines and explosive objects, as well as a number of trainings on how to write materials on this topic that are understandable for readers.

In general, the initiative to strengthen local media is part of a program implemented by the United Nations Development Program (UNDP) in Ukraine and financed by the Japanese government. The project also includes the production and distribution of pilot EORE media content in various formats through various information channels in Ukraine and conducting research to understand the behavior of the Ukrainian population related to mines and explosive ordnance.

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We recently published material about two brothers in the Snihurivka district.

«Life in conditions of constant risks: how the demining of Snihurivka is going»

«What are landmines and what should you do if you find a suspicious item?» Explainer

«How the Mykolaiv Region is demined»

You can also watch our report about what Mykolaiv residents know about mine safety.