Phnom Penh

Cambodia’s Prime Minister Hun Manet highlighted on Thursday that over 1 million Cambodians still reside in areas contaminated by landmines and explosive remnants of war (ERWs). Speaking at the groundbreaking ceremony for an antiquities museum in northwest Siem Reap province, Hun Manet reported that Cambodia has cleared approximately 3,000 square kilometers of these hazardous areas since 1992. However, about 1,700 square kilometers remain uncleared, posing ongoing risks to the population.

Cambodia remains severely impacted by landmines and ERWs, remnants from decades of war and internal conflicts that concluded in 1998. It is estimated that 4 to 6 million landmines and munitions are scattered across the country. Historical records, including from Yale University, indicate significant aerial bombardment during the Vietnam War, contributing to the current situation.

According to the Cambodian Mine Action and Victim Assistance Authority (CMAA), from 1979 to June 2024, landmine and ERW incidents have claimed 19,830 lives and caused injuries or amputations to 45,242 individuals. Prime Minister Hun Manet also lamented the cultural losses during the conflicts, noting damage, theft, and illegal trafficking of Cambodian ancient artifacts and statues from various temples.

Since 1996, Cambodia has successfully reclaimed 1,098 looted antiquities from 15 countries, including the United States, Britain, and Thailand, illustrating ongoing efforts to preserve its cultural heritage.

The prime minister’s remarks underscore the ongoing challenges and efforts to mitigate the devastating impacts of landmines and ERWs in Cambodia.