Handicap International Organizes ‘Pyramids of Shoes’ in Paris: How to Act Against Armed Conflicts and Humanitarian Crises
Paris, France – On Saturday, October 10, 2026, Handicap International will host its annual ‘Pyramids of Shoes’ event at Place de la République in Paris. This free, public event, running from 10:00 AM to 5:30 PM, seeks to engage citizens in the fight against armed conflicts, the proliferation of anti-personnel mines, and the escalating global humanitarian crises.
The event addresses critical questions: How can citizens effectively respond to the rise in armed conflicts and humanitarian disasters worldwide? How can we mobilize against the resurgence of anti-personnel mines, insidious weapons that continue to maim and kill thousands of civilians annually?
Event Details: What, Where, When, and How to Participate
Date and Time: Saturday, October 10, 2026, from 10:00 AM to 5:30 PM
Location: Place de la République, 75011 Paris, France
Admission: Free
Activities and Engagement:
Throughout this day of solidarity, attendees of all ages are invited to meet Handicap International’s teams and participate in a variety of immersive activities designed to educate and inspire action:
- Demining Demonstration: Witness a live demonstration showcasing the challenging process of demining and the dangers involved.
- Inclusive Sports Workshop: Participate in an inclusive sports session, highlighting the importance of accessibility and reintegration for victims of conflict.
- Humanitarian Aid Challenge Game: Engage in a game simulating the complexities and challenges of delivering humanitarian aid in emergency situations.
- Introduction to Inclusion: Learn about the principles of inclusion and how Handicap International works to ensure the rights and well-being of people with disabilities in crisis zones.
Finally, visitors are encouraged to ‘throw their shoes’ into the designated pyramid. These shoes symbolize citizen mobilization against the use of mines and the alarming regression caused by their reintroduction into arsenals and conflict zones. The collective weight of the collected shoes will be used by Handicap International to pressure states and international bodies to uphold the ban on anti-personnel mines. All collected shoes will be recycled, with further information available on Handicap International’s website.
Handicap International invites everyone to join this day of commitment and awareness to support their vital work on the ground.
Why is this event important?
Anti-personnel mines continue to pose a significant threat to civilian populations, even decades after conflicts have ended. These hidden killers indiscriminately target men, women, and children, leading to severe injuries, disabilities, and fatalities. The ‘Pyramids of Shoes’ event serves as a powerful visual reminder of the human cost of these weapons and a call to action for their complete eradication.
Key Issues Addressed:
- Anti-personnel Mines: Highlighting the ongoing danger and the need for global adherence to the Ottawa Treaty.
- Armed Conflicts: Raising awareness about the devastating impact of modern warfare on civilian populations and infrastructure.
- Humanitarian Crises: Mobilizing support for humanitarian efforts in regions affected by conflict, natural disasters, and other emergencies.
- Inclusion: Promoting the rights and needs of people with disabilities, particularly those affected by conflict and crisis.
Contact Information:
For more information about the event or Handicap International’s work, please use the following contacts:
- Phone: +33 7 62 75 12 04
- Email: [email protected]
- Website: www.handicap-international.fr/fr/pyramides-de-chaussures
- Facebook: Handicap International France
- Instagram: @handicap_international_france
Come and be a part of this crucial event to make a difference in the lives of those affected by conflict and humanitarian crises.
Source: jds.fr
