National Day of Remembrance Honors Khmer Rouge Victims as Leaders Urge Peace and Unity

PHNOM PENH, May 20, 2026 (KPT) — Cambodia on Wednesday marked its ninth National Day of Remembrance with ceremonies honoring millions who perished under the Khmer Rouge regime.

Observed annually on May 20, the memorial commemorates victims of Democratic Kampuchea between 1975 and 1979, when Pol Pot’s leadership brought mass executions, forced labor, starvation and disease.

The government says the day preserves the memory and dignity of victims, supports reconciliation and educates younger generations about the atrocities. First declared the “Day of Anger” in 1983, commemorations have been held since 1984.

In a message posted Tuesday, Acting Head of State Samdech Techo Hun Sen called the Khmer Rouge era “a brutal and dark chapter” and dedicated the day to more than three million victims.

He urged Cambodians to safeguard peace and unity, warning against any return to violence.

Prime Minister Hun Manet said Cambodia had transformed over three decades under Hun Sen’s “Win‑Win Policy,” moving from war to stability and development, while a tribunal prosecuted senior Khmer Rouge leaders.

Officials said this year’s commemoration underscores the importance of peace, reconciliation and justice for long‑term stability.