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A Cambodian delegation led by Senior Minister His Excellency Dr. Ly Thuch, 1st Vice President of the Cambodian Mine Action and Victim Assistance Authority (CMAA) and President of the Anti-Personnel Mine Ban Convention, participated in the European Regional Conference from August 27 to August 29, 2024. The event, which gathered stakeholders focused on improving the lives of those affected by landmines, provided a platform for dialogue on the challenges and advancements in mine action worldwide.
The conference, held in Slovenia, brought together various high-profile figures, including H.E. Tomaž Lovrenčič, Director of ITF Enhancing Human Security, and H.E. Marko Štucin, State Secretary of the Ministry of Foreign and European Affairs of the Republic of Slovenia. The convention was officially opened by H.E. Božena Forštnarič̣-Boroje, Director-General for Multilateral Cooperation, who welcomed delegates from participating countries and emphasized the importance of international collaboration in addressing the global landmine issue.
Mine Clearance and Victim Assistance Over The Past Decade
During the three-day event, Senior Minister H.E. Dr. Ly Thuch highlighted Cambodia’s significant achievements in mine clearance and victim assistance over the past decade. “Cambodia has made remarkable progress in clearing landmines and assisting victims,” Dr. Ly Thuch stated. “Through our concerted efforts, we have cleared vast areas of land, enabling thousands of families to return to their homes and rebuild their lives.” Over the last ten years, Cambodia has successfully removed more than 85,000 landmines and unexploded ordnance, benefitting nearly 350,000 individuals and families who now have access to previously dangerous lands.
Read More: Leader Talks With H.E. Ly Thuch On The Economic Benefits Of A Mine Free Cambodia
The Senior Minister also addressed the ongoing challenges in mine exploration and clearance, particularly in conflict-affected areas. “The proliferation of landmines and unexploded ordnance continues to pose significant risks to civilian populations and hinders development efforts,” he remarked. Key challenges identified include the increased density of mines in certain regions, technological advancements in mine detection and removal, and the need for sustained funding and resources. Dr. Ly Thuch emphasized that addressing these issues requires a collaborative approach involving governments, the private sector, NGOs, international organizations, and affected communities.
In addition to discussing mine action, the Cambodian delegation introduced a recent legislative initiative by the Royal Government of Cambodia. This new law requires factories to employ at least 1% of their workforce from among landmine victims and individuals with disabilities. The legislation, developed in collaboration with the CMAA and the Textile, Apparel, Footwear, and Travel Goods Association in Cambodia (TAFTAC), aims to provide economic opportunities and promote the inclusion of affected individuals in the workforce. “This law represents a significant step forward in ensuring that victims of landmines are not only supported but also empowered to contribute to society,” Dr. Ly Thuch explained.
Global Dialogue and Strengthen Partnerships In The Fight Against Landmines
The conference also served as a platform for Cambodia to extend an invitation to the upcoming international summit dedicated to anti-personnel mines, scheduled for November in Siem Reap. This summit is expected to attract over 1,500 participants from 164 countries, offering an opportunity to enhance global dialogue and strengthen partnerships in the fight against landmines. “We look forward to welcoming the international community to Siem Reap for this crucial event, where we will continue our efforts to create a safer world for all,” Dr. Ly Thuch said.
The Cambodian delegation expressed deep gratitude to the Slovenian government and the organizing bodies for facilitating this significant event. “We are thankful for the opportunity to engage in meaningful discussions with global leaders and experts who share our commitment to mine action and victim assistance,” Dr. Ly Thuch concluded.
The European Regional Conference underscored the importance of continued international cooperation in addressing the landmine issue, with Cambodia playing a leading role in promoting safety, inclusion, and development for affected communities.
