Even decades after the Vietnam War ended, the presence of unexploded ordnance (UXO) remains a significant threat to Cambodian lives. A recent incident involving 11-year-old Yeeat Chalee demonstrated the dangers posed by these remnants of conflict. While guiding cows near his village, Yeeat discovered what he thought was scrap metal. Ignorant of its true nature, he tossed it away, only to face sudden destruction when it exploded.
Reflecting on the terrifying moment, Yeeat recounted, "I was guiding cows and thought it was just scrap metal. I threw it away, and then it exploded with flames!" His experience encapsulates the serious risks faced by Cambodians living near contaminated lands, as over 1,600 square kilometers of the country remain littered with UXO.
These lethal remnants are not merely relics of the past—thousands of unexploded bombs and mortar rounds were left behind during the U.S. military operations and the brutal era of the Khmer Rouge. Farmers and villagers continue to confront the specter of danger every day as they till their fields and tend to livestock, often unaware of the risks just beneath their feet.
One farmer, Meau Sa-run, from Svay Rieng province, expressed the dilemma faced by those who live with the constant presence of UXO. "I know well about the unexploded bombs, but we are poor. Therefore, we have to farm in fields with UXO. When I find them during plowing, I report them to the local police for disposal, and keep them secure for others." His statement highlights the enduring economic struggles overshadowed by the threat of violence from buried ordnance.
The Cambodian Mine Action Centre (CMAC), supported by various international agencies and countries, undertakes the risky work of clearing UXO. Despite progress, many areas remain hazardous, underscoring the enormity of the task at hand. Recently, Mos Sokeong, head of UXO clearance, addressed the impact of U.S. policy changes on operations, stating, "I feel very sad. The past two weeks, we have received many requests but couldn’t respond," referring to the U.S. suspension of foreign assistance for 90 days.
This funding withdrawal has raised concerns, as humanitarian efforts, including efforts to address UXO threats, depend heavily on the financial backing of international donors, particularly the U.S.—which contributed approximately $13.9 billion to global humanitarian assistance last year. Without this aid, clearing operations will slow considerably, leaving populations at risk.
The need for continued international involvement cannot be understated. According to UN officials, the stakes are high. "Denounce the humanitarian work as it’s at stake, especially with UXO still posing serious threats to daily Cambodian lives," they pointed out, acknowledging the fragile balance between survival, safety, and national identity.
While the Cambodian government works diligently to address these threats, the obstacles are immense. The long-standing impact of historical conflicts continues to haunt the nation, with international support playing a pivotal role. Many believe restoring assistance is not only beneficial, but imperative for the future security of Cambodian citizens.
Looking forward, Cambodia must confront the consequences of its past as it seeks to provide for its people. The newly formulated strategies should involve increased investment, international partnerships, and community engagement to dismantle the remnants of war. Only through combined efforts can Cambodia hope to secure its land from the grip of UXO and restore safety and prosperity for its people. Daily agricultural practices should not bear the mark of past conflicts, but rather, pave the way for future growth and recovery.