Nevertheless, not all deminers believe the ICBL has had a negative impact on demining. Funds are needed for each of these initiatives. Deminers, he says, should not assume that their work is the only objective. Blagden also doubts that the ICBL's use of high-end estimates is the cause of donor reticence. Mine clearance is dirty and dangerous, and people die and are mutilated.
Few organizations care to be associated with that.
Further, at least one demining organization, halo Trust, claims to have very little trouble raising funds. According to halo's Guy Willoughby, an outspoken critic of exaggerated numbers, his organization is doing just fine. You can appreciate the need for accuracy. If there is no love lost between the two camps, says Blagden, that is only natural. The mine clearers see themselves doing dangerous work in horrible countries with little recognition. . . .