Phnom Penh: The Cambodian Mine Action and Victim Assistance Authority (CMAA) convened a Stakeholder Workshop aimed at gathering crucial inputs for the drafting of the National Mine Action Policy 2025-2035. The event, held on February 13, was part of Cambodia’s long-term vision to achieve a future with no impact from landmines and unexploded ordnances (UXO).
According to Agence Kampuchea Presse, the workshop was presided over by H.E. Ly Thuch, Senior Minister and First Vice-President of the CMAA. It was attended by representatives from various ministries, partner countries, development partners, and both national and international organizations involved in mine action. The primary goal was to discuss strategies and collect inputs for the forthcoming National Mine Action Policy 2026-2035, which aims to guide Cambodia towards its ambitious goal of eliminating landmine impacts.
During the discussions, H.E. Ly Thuch acknowledged the progress made so far in mine clearance efforts but highlighted the need to maintain momentum. He emphasized the importance of enhancing cooperation and mobilizing additional resources to address the remaining complex mine-affected areas. As the current National Mine Action Strategic Plan 2018-2025 nears its conclusion, he reaffirmed Cambodia’s ongoing commitment to mine action beyond 2025.
H.E. Ly Thuch also praised the achievements under the National Mine Action Strategy 2018-2025, which has significantly contributed to national economic growth and poverty alleviation. He noted that the upcoming National Mine Action Policy 2026-2035 would integrate policy and strategy, continuing the vision initiated by former Prime Minister Samdech Akka Moha Sena Padei Techo Hun Sen.
On behalf of the Royal Government and the people of Cambodia, the Senior Minister expressed gratitude to all stakeholders for their contributions to mine action efforts in the country.
The CMAA reported that from 1992 to 2024, approximately 3,297 square kilometers of land contaminated with landmines have been cleared, with 81 percent of the land repurposed for agriculture. This clearance has benefited over 10 million people. Over the same period, 1,197,218 anti-personnel mines, 26,567 anti-tank mines, and 3,196,704 explosive remnants of war have been safely destroyed. As a result, the number of casualties has dramatically decreased from 4,320 in 1996 to just 49 in 2024.
To date, 15 provinces and the capital, including Stung Treng, Kep, Prey Veng, Phnom Penh, and others, have been declared mine-free, marking significant progress in Cambodia’s fight against landmines.