Cambodia, ravaged by thirty years of civil war, remains strewn with anti-personnel mines, annually causing deaths and injuries to civilians. Despite efforts, millions remain buried, awaiting discovery.

Since the 1990s, the government’s efforts have led to the destruction of 4 million landmines, yet the threat persists. As of now, over 5,000 individuals nationwide are dedicated to neutralizing the mines, with a notable NGO employing an innovative method using rats to detect these explosives.

In November 2024, Cambodia played host to the Fifth Review Conference of the Ottawa Convention. This international treaty, signed by 164 countries, is dedicated to outlawing the use of such lethal weapons globally. The event underscores the ongoing struggle against these remnants of conflict and highlights the international community’s commitment to a mine-free world.

FRANCE 24’s team, comprising William de Tamaris, Aruna Popuri, and Justin McCurry, brings this story to light, shedding light on the impact and efforts to combat the legacy of war in Cambodia.

Source: https://www.france24.com/en/tv-shows/focus/20250404-cambodia-leads-global-fight-against-landmines