Cambodia Renews Mine Action Policy, Centering Development and Future Generations

Cambodia has unveiled its "National Mine Action Policy 2026-2035," positioning mine clearance activities as a core element of national development. This policy represents a commitment to the Cambodian people and a promise to future generations, stated HE Dr. Ly Thuch, Senior Minister and First Vice President of the Cambodian Mine Action and Victim Assistance Authority (CMAA). Speaking on behalf of Prime Minister Hun Manet at the policy launch ceremony at the Council of Ministers on September 2, 2026, HE Dr. Ly Thuch emphasized that mine action is not a secondary task but the nucleus of national development. The policy integrates mine action as a crucial component of the national development strategy, linking it with food security, rural development, poverty reduction, infrastructure development, and the enhancement of citizens' quality of life. He underscored that peace is the fundamental basis for mine action and expressed profound gratitude to former Prime Minister Hun Sen, the "Father of Peace," for leading the country to peace, stability, solidarity, and development, thereby establishing a solid foundation for demining and clearing explosive remnants of war (ERW). Under this foundation of peace, land once fraught with mines and danger has been transformed into land of hope, dignity, and opportunity. Over the past three decades, demining and ERW clearance have significantly reduced the impact on the population, with cleared land being utilized for agriculture, education, infrastructure, and investment. HE Dr. Ly Thuch also conveyed his appreciation to Prime Minister Hun Manet for his unwavering attention and strong support for the mine action sector, aimed at protecting lives and dignity and contributing to socio-economic development. He highlighted a significant shift in the new national policy: the measurement of success will not only be based on the area of land cleared but also on what people can build and gain from the cleared land. Furthermore, HE Dr. Ly Thuch extended his sincere gratitude to donor countries, development partners, mine action operators, civil society organizations, the private sector, philanthropists, and all relevant stakeholders who have contributed to this humanitarian mission. Their support and participation have directly contributed to saving lives, resolving the legacy of war, and opening avenues for local development. He appealed to all stakeholders to continue accompanying Cambodia in the final, complex, and resource-intensive phase of mine clearance to achieve the goal of a Cambodia free from the impact of mines and ERW. Ultimately, he stressed that the vision of the national policy is to build "a Cambodia free from the impact of explosive ordnance" with sustainable livelihoods, peace, stability, and development. This goal can be achieved through collective commitment to complete the mission Cambodia has undertaken for over three decades. The ceremony also featured congratulatory messages from representatives of donor countries, development partners, and the private sector, acknowledging the Royal Government of Cambodia for organizing the "National Mine Action Policy 2026-2035," a strategic document reflecting Cambodia's vision. These representatives highly valued the achievements in mine action and reiterated their contributions and commitment to supporting Cambodia's goal of a mine-impact-free nation. Source: CPP Cambodia