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The Saddest Part Of Siem Reap, Cambodia, Land Mine Museum
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Cluster Bombs in Cambodia.
What is the history of cluster bombs in Cambodia?
In this video, we delve into the history of cluster bombing in Cambodia.
I recently visited the land mine museum in Cambodia, and it had a profound effect on me.
Visiting the museum opened my eyes to the devastation of not only war but these insidious weapons.
Please watch until the end to listen to our guide talk about how he was affected by cluster bombs.
He told us that even today 2-3 locals a day are still being injured or killed by unexploded bombs.
Cluster bombs were extensively used in Cambodia during the Vietnam War, which lasted from the mid-1960s to the early 1970s.
The United States dropped a significant number of cluster bombs as part of its military operations against North Vietnamese forces and the Viet Cong.
These bombs were intended to target enemy troops, vehicles, and supplies by scattering smaller bomblets over a wide area.
However, many of these bomblets did not explode upon impact and remained as dangerous unexploded ordnance (UXO).
This has had devastating consequences for Cambodia’s civilian population even long after the war ended.
The unexploded cluster bomblets have caused numerous casualties and hindered post-war recovery efforts.
The use of cluster bombs and the resulting humanitarian crisis prompted international attention and efforts to address the issue.
Efforts have been made to clear UXO and assist affected communities, but the legacy of cluster bombs continues to affect Cambodia to this day.
The impact of cluster bombs has been significant, leading to casualties and injuries among civilians, including children, farmers, and other individuals who come into contact with unexploded bomblets.
Various organizations and government agencies have been working to clear unexploded ordnance and provide assistance to affected communities, but the exact number of people affected can be challenging to determine due to the ongoing nature of the issue and the remote areas where these incidents often occur.
The United States has acknowledged its involvement in the dropping of cluster bombs and other ordnance in Cambodia during the Vietnam War.
However, the question of taking “responsibility” can be complex and can involve various aspects, including acknowledging the harm caused, providing assistance for clearance and victim support, and addressing the consequences.
Over the years, the U.S. government has taken steps to address the issue of unexploded ordnance (UXO) in Cambodia and provide support for clearance efforts and victim assistance programs.
This has included financial support for UXO clearance projects, mine risk education, and medical and rehabilitation assistance for those affected by UXO.
While some efforts have been made, there may be ongoing debates or discussions about the extent of responsibility and the effectiveness of the measures taken.
Who are the organisations that are clearing cluster bombs in Cambodia?
Several organizations have been actively involved in the clearance of cluster bombs and unexploded ordnance (UXO) in Cambodia. Some of these organizations include:
HALO Trust:
HALO Trust is a leading international mine clearance organization that has been working in Cambodia since the 1990s.
They have been involved in UXO and landmine clearance, as well as providing mine risk education to local communities.
Mines Advisory Group (MAG):
MAG is another prominent organization that focuses on UXO and landmine clearance.
They have been working in Cambodia to clear hazardous areas and provide training and support to local communities.
Cambodian Mine Action Centre (CMAC):
CMAC is a Cambodian government agency that plays a crucial role in coordinating and implementing mine and UXO clearance efforts.
They work closely with international partners and organizations to address the issue.
Golden West Humanitarian Foundation:
This organization collaborates with local authorities and communities to clear landmines and UXO in Cambodia, including cluster bombs.
Handicap International (now known as Humanity & Inclusion):
This organization provides support to victims of landmines and UXO, including medical care, rehabilitation, and socioeconomic reintegration.
Clear Path International:
This organization focuses on UXO and landmine clearance, as well as victim assistance and survivor support.

[@TheSouthEastAsiaReport]

What are your thoughts about what the local Cambodian people have endured since the Vietnam war?