Croatia Declared Mine-Free After Decades, but War’s Scars Remain

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Zagreb: Decades after the war that followed the breakup of Yugoslavia, Croatia has officially been declared mine-free, marking the end of a long and dangerous chapter for its people.

For survivors, the milestone carries deep emotional weight. “That danger is gone. We can walk freely in our country,” said Davorin Cetin, who was severely injured in a landmine explosion and spent years recovering.

Landmines left behind during the 1991–1995 conflict continued to kill and injure civilians long after the war ended. More than 200 people lost their lives and hundreds were wounded, as explosives remained hidden in fields, villages and forests. Clearing over 100,000 landmines and hundreds of thousands of unexploded devices took nearly three decades and cost billions.

Yet for many families, the scars remain. “It was a struggle… but a deep pain remains,” said Juraj Pievac, who lost his wife in an explosion and was left disabled. His story reflects the lasting human cost of the conflict, even years after peace returned.

Those involved in clearing the mines also paid a heavy price. “It would be wonderful if no one ever had to experience such a tragedy again,” said Mirsad Tokic, who lost a leg while working to remove explosives.

While Croatia celebrates becoming mine-free, the legacy of war continues across the region. Neighbouring Bosnia and Herzegovina still faces landmine contamination, with many areas yet to be cleared.

Croatia’s achievement marks a major step forward, but it also serves as a reminder of the long-lasting human, physical and emotional impact of war.