Laos Renews Commitment to UXO Clearance Amid International Conference

The Legacies of War Foundation in the United States is dedicated to acting as a vital voice and mobilizing fundraising efforts to support unexploded ordnance (UXO) clearance in the Lao PDR. The Legacies of War, based in the United States, plays a crucial role in promoting its mission and accelerating support from the UK, the US public and government to address the lingering issue of unexploded ordnance (UXO) across the Lao PDR. The organization remains steadfastly committed to serving as a fundraising advocate to secure a safer future for the land of Laos. During the 3rd Review Conference of the Convention on Cluster Munitions (CCM) held at the National Convention Centre in Vientiane—where they participated in an exhibition showcasing cluster munition clearance achievements in Laos—Mrs. Bounthanh Phommasathit, Honorary Advisor to Legacies of War, shared an interview with reporters on September 15. She stated that the organization has been active since 2004, with its core mission focused on educating the public about the impacts of the Secret War (1964–1974). Although the war ended more than 50 years ago, unexploded munitions—such as cluster bombs (bombies)—remain buried in the soil, continuing to pose severe, life-threatening dangers to the lives and livelihoods of the Lao people, particularly farmers working in agricultural fields and local children. Through its advocacy in the United States, the organization works closely with local members of Congress and citizens across various states to raise awareness of historical truths and advocate for governmental funding responsibilities. Furthermore, Legacies of War emphasizes sharing historical narratives with the younger generation—especially diaspora communities of Lao, Cambodian, and Vietnamese descent born and raised in America—helping them understand the root causes of their families' displacement and the lasting impacts of the war that persist today. Mrs. Bounthanh Phommasathit also expressed great pride and joy that Laos is hosting this significant conference. Because UXO clearance in Laos will require many more years of dedicated work, the foundation remains fully committed to acting as a vocal advocate for fundraising, securing ongoing US government assistance, and ensuring lasting safety for the land and people of Laos. 9/16/2026 4:10:09 PM Lao health authorities have successfully ensured comprehensive health security for international delegates following a robust medical operation that ran from September 12 to 18, 2026. 9/16/2026 3:21:50 PM The Embassy of Japan in the Lao PDR has provided a grant of US$119,711 to support the construction of a new building for Ban Huay Slaep Lower Secondary School in Sam Tai District, Houaphanh Province. 9/16/2026 12:20:27 PM For Lao students Mr. Khampanya Latsavong and Miss. Chanthaphone Chanthavong, studying at Guangxi Arts University is more than an academic journey. It is an opportunity to discover a new culture, develop their artistic skills and share the richness of Lao culture with people in China. 9/16/2026 9:56:38 AM As international delegates convene for the 3rd Review Conference of the Convention on Cluster Munitions (CCM) at the National Convention Centre, the Lao People’s Army’s Humanitarian UXO Clearance Battalion (Centre 523) is putting a spotlight on its vital nationwide mission to rid communities of war-era remnants. 9/16/2026 9:51:28 AM (KPL/VNA) The Vietnam Academy of Social Sciences (VASS), in coordination with the Lao National Institute for Economic and Social Sciences and the Royal Academy of Cambodia, held an international conference in Nghe An province on September 15 to discuss strategic infrastructure connectivity among the three countries in the new context. 16/09/2026 12:41 16/09/2026 10:20 16/09/2026 10:11 16/09/2026 09:47 16/09/2026 09:44