Women lead demining efforts in Sri Lanka's postwar recovery

Fifteen years after Sri Lanka's civil war, women are leading demining efforts to clear land mines and rebuild their communities. These women, including widows and single mothers, are working to ensure safety and support their families in a still-divided country. Sivakumar Chandradevi and Sundramurthi Sasireka, both deminers, are part of a team clearing explosives on Mantivu Island. Their work addresses the dangers posed by remnants of the conflict, which has left many civilians at risk. The Sri Lankan government has faced criticism for its handling of war-related issues, including the disappearance of over 20,000 people. Newly elected President Anura Kumara Dissanayake has promised to return seized lands to displaced Tamils, but skepticism remains about the government's commitment to reconciliation.