"The rats are relatively fast and accurate compared to other techniques, " said Christophe Cox, head of a mine-clearing group called Apopo in Morogoro, Tanzania.

WSJ: Sniffing Out a More-Efficient Mine Sweeper

The Karen Refugees Committee, a leading refugee organization, recently said the reforms in Myanmar "signal a ray of hope for many refugees to be able to return to their homeland, " but laid down 10 conditions for repatriation ranging from a solid nationwide cease-fire to clearing the vast mine fields along the border.

NPR: Refugees Face Uncertain Future As Myanmar Opens

As well as clearing mines, the Cambodia Mine Action Centre, which co-ordinates the landmines operation, has been getting local people to help mark danger areas.

ECONOMIST: Cambodia