Iran: The Latest 'I fought the Taliban, now we have tea’: Maj Gen Cowan on landmines, aid and Ukraine
Dec 10, 2025
In this illuminating conversation, Major General James Cowan, a former British Army commander and current CEO of HALO Trust, dives into the vital intersection of defense and humanitarian aid. He discusses how clearing landmines post-conflict can prevent future wars and enhance global security. Cowan highlights the challenges posed by landmines in places like Ukraine and Gaza, emphasizing their impact on civilian life. He also argues that sustainable livelihoods and international engagement are crucial for reducing migration pressures and maintaining British safety.
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Three Linked Threats To Recovery
- Halo tackles rural landmines, urban explosive ordnance disposal, and uncontrolled weapons removal as linked problems.
- Removing these hazards restores livelihoods, infrastructure and reduces future violence.
Use Tech To Accelerate Clearance
- Use satellite/drone imagery with AI to map contamination and sharply reduce clearance costs.
- Scale mechanisation and autonomy to speed clearance beyond manual techniques.
Balance Manual Work With Mechanisation
- Keep manual demining where it creates local employment, protects environments, and empowers women.
- Combine local workforces with mechanisation where geography allows for scale.