Split-Dalmatia declared mine-free as Croatia nears end of demining
- by croatiaweek
- in News
Split-Dalmatia
Croatia has marked an important milestone in its nearly 30-year-long battle against landmines, as the Split-Dalmatia County has officially been declared mine-free.
The announcement was made during the presentation of the “Croatian Safe Steps – CROSS II” project in Split on 11 April.
The event was attended by Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of the Interior, Davor Božinović, who proudly called the moment “one of the final steps” towards a mine-free Croatia.
“We are close to achieving the goal of a Croatia without mines,” said Božinović. “This is a legacy of war that has threatened lives, safety, and development for decades.”
Heavy Investment, Heavy Cost
Over the years, Croatia has invested more than €1.1 billion into demining operations, with around 25% of the funding coming from EU sources. Since 1989, over 600 people have been injured by mines, with 207 fatalities, including 40 deminers.
CROSS II: Clearing Forests & Mountains
The CROSS II project, worth over €77 million, focuses on clearing some of Croatia’s most challenging forest and mountain terrains. It is funded through the EU’s Competitiveness and Cohesion Programme 2021–2027, with 62% of the cost covered by the European Regional Development Fund.
More than half of the planned 48.5 km² of forest land across Karlovac, Lika-Senj, Sisak-Moslavina, and Split-Dalmatia has already been cleared. The Ministry of the Interior is the main project coordinator, with operations handled by the Civil Protection Directorate.
CROSS III Already on the Horizon
Looking ahead, Minister Božinović announced the upcoming CROSS III project, which will target explosive remnants in former military storage areas. Croatia aims to finish all demining activities by 1 March 2026.
Even after completing its mission at home, Croatia plans to share its expertise internationally, continuing its contribution to global safety efforts.
Final Mine Handed Over
In a symbolic moment, Božinović handed over a certificate and the “last mine” to Split-Dalmatia County Prefect Blaženko Boban, officially declaring the region free of mines and explosive devices.
(Photo: MUP)
Currently, fewer than 50 km² of mine-suspected areas remain in Croatia, limited to parts of Lika-Senj and Sisak-Moslavina counties. Karlovac County has already been cleared, with remaining threats in three municipalities stemming only from unexploded military ordnance in storage zones.
A Safer Future Ahead
The success of CROSS II marks a significant achievement in Croatia’s post-war recovery and ongoing commitment to safety, development, and international cooperation.
