Preah Vihear Marks 18 Years as UNESCO Site Amid Recovery from 2025 Destruction

The Preah Vihear National Authority on July 5, 2026, hosted a ceremony marking the 18th anniversary of the temple’s UNESCO World Heritage inscription (July 7, 2008 – July 7, 2026), under the theme “Conservation, Destruction, and Restoration,” at the Samdech Techo Hun Sen Preah Vihear Natural Museum. Presided over by Minister of Culture and Fine Arts H.E. Dr. Phoeurng Sackona, the event drew some 500 participants, including provincial Governor H.E. Kim Rithy, National Authority Director-General H.E. Kong Puthikar, UNESCO Cambodia Head Mr. Flavio Bonetti, ICC-Preah Vihear representatives, armed forces, teachers, students, and local communities. The gathering reflected on the temple’s Outstanding Universal Value and celebrated conservation achievements over the past 18 years, made possible through joint efforts with international partners. However, it also solemnly recalled the severe destruction in 2025, which completely erased prior restoration work, damaged 562 locations within the temple complex, forced approximately 16,000 people to flee their homes, and destroyed houses, schools, health centres, pagodas, and public infrastructure. Governor Kim Rithy reported on efforts to establish safety shelters and provide essential services, including long-term housing for displaced civilians still unable to return to their villages. The National Authority outlined an emergency action plan following UNESCO and ICC-Preah Vihear recommendations, including: clearance of unexploded ordnance; emergency shoring to prevent further collapse; collection of stone fragments for restoration; full 3D documentation; and restoration of the ancient water system. Funding has come from the Royal Government, UNESCO, ALIPH, and France’s permanent delegation to UNESCO. Priority work ahead includes continued temple restoration, reforestation and ecosystem recovery, tourism revitalisation, and community livelihood improvement, alongside a national call for solidarity in protecting this ancestral heritage. Minister Phoeurng Sackona reaffirmed the government’s commitment to protecting territorial integrity and cultural properties under international law, and urged close cooperation with all national and international partners to ensure the temple endures for future generations. She expressed gratitude to UNESCO and other donors for their emergency support. The assembly conveyed profound gratitude to the late King-Father Norodom Sihanouk, His Majesty King Norodom Sihamoni, Senate President Samdech Techo Hun Sen, Prime Minister Samdech Thipadei Hun Manet, and all leaders and veterans who have defended the nation’s territory and cultural heritage. The ceremony concluded in an atmosphere of joy and deep national pride, reflecting a strong spirit of unity and devotion to Cambodia’s cultural legacy. By C. Nika