Mines Advisory Group

MAG was formed in 1989 by Rae McGrath in response to landmines and unexploded ordnances (UXO) left by the Soviet–Afghan War. The organisation initially served as an advisory group, publishing reports about the problems in Afghanistan and Cambodia based on their assessments between 1989 and 1991. In 1992, MAG, along with other NGOs, formed the International Campaign to Ban Landmines (ICBL).

By 1992, MAG began its first landmine clearance program in Iraq. Clearance programmes extended to Angola, Cambodia, and Laos by 1994. MAG continued to expand, providing services related to training and employment, emergency response, and risk education.

MAG has worked in 70 countries since 1989, destroying landmines and providing further support to communities recovering from war. MAG states 29 countries have been cleared of landmines while 63 remain contaminated.

Rosamund Pike has served as the MAG Ambassador since 2021. Princess Diana and Prince Harry have supported the organization's efforts.

Major donors for projects include numerous national governments, foundations, and the UNDP.

Operations

MAG uses a variety of techniques to detect and destroy unexploded ordnances (UXOs) including manual deminers, mine detection dogs, metal detectors, excavation tools, and armoured machines. MAG works with and trains local communities to clear landmines.

MAG also engaged in policy and advocacy work at the United Nations and in many countries. It also works to mitigate arms trafficking and provides risk education to local communities.

Current operation locations

Africa

MAG currently works in Angola, Burkina Faso, Chad, Guinea, Mali, Mauritania, Niger, Nigeria, Sierra Leone, South Sudan, and Zimbabwe.

Asia

MAG currently works in Cambodia, Laos, Myanmar, Sri Lanka, and Vietnam.