FSD intervenes typically in three different contexts:

a) During armed conflicts:

Humanitarian aid is often the only lifeline for thousands of people struggling to survive. Professional delivery of humanitarian assistance, access to aid recipients, and safety for aid workers are essential prerequisites. FSD provides mine action expertise and assistance to partner organisations and other humanitarian actors as emergency humanitarian operations are planned an implemented.

b) During the transitional and recovery phase after an armed conflict:

A priority for governments and non-state actors emerging from violent conflict is to build confidence so that peace can be sustained. This means that national authorities and aid agencies need to repatriate refugees and to extend humanitarian assistance and government services into former conflict areas.

Landmines and other explosive remnants of war often hamper the mobility of government officials, politicians, election officials, returnees, and relief and development agency personnel. Landmines obstruct the peace-building stages of post-war societies and thereby exacerbate the threat of a return to violent conflict.

National elections are another important factor in reconciling post-conflict countries. Governments need legitimacy and want as many voters as possible to show up at voting centres. Many voters, however, can only participate once they have safe access to voting centres.

c) During development phases:

Landmines and other explosive remnants of war continue to threaten, maim and kill indiscriminately long after hostilities have ended. Landmines impede post-conflict reconstruction and economic development. Mine clearance is required before fields can be planted, drinking water can be made available, and schools can be built.