Anti-personnel land mines scattered indiscriminately throughout Angola by both sides during three decades of conflict have caused tens of thousands of civilian casualties in violation of international law. Africa Watch charges that land mines have rendered large areas of arable land and pasture, many roads, bridges, riverbanks, villages, and some important economic installations unfit for people. While efforts have been made to undo some of this damage, the renewed fighting since the disputed September 1992 elections is increased cause for concern.

History of the conflicts in Angola -- Technical assessment of minelaying -- The human cost -- The social and economic impact -- Mine clearance initiatives -- Land mines in international law.