NOVAFRICA Seminar: Ariel BenYishay, AidData — Landmine Clearance and Economic Development: Evidence from Multispectral Satellite Imagery, Nighttime Lights, and Conflict Events in Afghanistan

As part of the 2025/2026 NOVAFRICA Seminar Series, we are pleased to welcome Professor Ariel BenYishay from AidData, on Friday, 14th November, at 11:30 AM (Lisbon time), in Room B113, Nova School of Business and Economics, Carcavelos campus, who will present his paper:

“Landmine Clearance and Economic Development: Evidence from Multispectral Satellite Imagery, Nighttime Lights, and Conflict Events in Afghanistan.”

with findings on the clearance of over 15,000 hazardous landmine areas in Afghanistan show that demining efforts lead to greater land use, higher economic activity, and reduced conflict risks.

Abstract
The widespread prevalence of unexploded landmines leads to thousands of deaths and injuries annually and restricts trade, mobility, and access to essential services. This study examines the clearance of over 15,000 hazardous landmine areas in Afghanistan since 1992, leveraging precise geospatial data and satellite imagery. The findings show that demining efforts lead to increased land use, higher economic activity, and reduced conflict risks — highlighting the substantial economic impact of landmine action even in areas with ongoing conflict.

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