Cambodia Investment Review
Amid the historic Siem Reap-Angkor Summit on a Mine-Free World, the ASEAN Regional Mine Action Center (ARMAC) has taken center stage, showcasing its progress in victim assistance (VA) and pioneering technological advancements in mine action. With over 700 delegates representing 58 organizations from more than 100 nations gathered to reaffirm their commitment to a mine-free world, ARMAC’s contributions highlight its leadership in regional mine action and victim rehabilitation.
A Platform for Innovation and Impact
ARMAC’s exhibit at the conference vividly demonstrated its unwavering commitment to fostering safety and development across ASEAN Member States (AMS). The Center showcased its efforts in strengthening victim assistance through the recently established ASEAN Regional Victim Assistance Network (VAN). This network serves as a critical platform for sharing best practices and addressing the socio-economic inclusion, physical rehabilitation, and psychological support of explosive ordnance (EO) survivors and their families.
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A standout feature of ARMAC’s technological showcase was its Explosive Ordnance Risk Education (EORE) chatbot, SAFE (Saving All From EO). Designed to deliver life-saving information to communities in EO-contaminated areas, SAFE uses artificial intelligence to provide interactive, multilingual guidance on recognizing and avoiding landmines and UXOs. Accessible via popular messaging platforms, SAFE ensures vital safety education reaches even the most remote areas.
“With SAFE, we’re not just teaching communities how to stay safe; we’re breaking down barriers to information access,” noted Rothna Buth, Executive Director of ARMAC.
High-Profile Engagement
Adding a touch of prominence to ARMAC’s presence was Executive Director Rothna Buth, who hosted Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet and several high-ranking dignitaries, including representatives from the United Nations and ASEAN.
ARMAC’s participation also highlighted the leadership of Cambodian Senior Minister H.E. Ly Thuch, First Vice President of the Cambodia Mine Action and Victim Assistance Authority, who serves as President of the Fifth Review Conference. His vision and dedication to a mine-free world resonated throughout the summit.
Reflecting on the occasion, Rothna Buth shared, “ARMAC is honored to stand at the forefront of this summit, showcasing how collaboration, innovation, and compassion can turn hope into reality for EO survivors. By integrating advanced technology and victim-centered approaches, we aim to create a safer, more inclusive future.”
Victim Assistance at the Core
Victim assistance remains a cornerstone of ARMAC’s strategy. In 2023, ARMAC launched the Regional Victim Assistance Guideline to enhance service delivery across AMS, ensuring comprehensive care that aligns with international standards such as the Anti-Personnel Mine Ban Convention.
Programs addressing physical rehabilitation, mental health services, and socio-economic empowerment were prominently featured. These initiatives not only improve the quality of life for survivors but also integrate them into their communities as active contributors.
A Global Gathering for Change
The summit, described as a “gathering of hope and determination” by Cambodian Senior Minister H.E. Ly Thuch, is poised to drive international action against the lingering threat of landmines. ARMAC’s participation underscores the importance of collective efforts in achieving the Ottawa Convention’s vision—a world free of mines. As the summit progresses, ARMAC’s innovative solutions and heartfelt commitment to victim assistance resonate as a call to action.
Rothna Buth’s closing words at the ARMAC exhibit perfectly encapsulated the sentiment of the gathering: “Each life saved, each survivor empowered, is a step closer to the mine-free world we envision. ARMAC is proud to play a pivotal role in this journey, but it is together that we will achieve it.”
