New Mine Action Plan Targets Clearance and Victim Assistance

PHNOM PENH, June 4, 2026 (KPT) — A new three‑year action plan is being prepared to strengthen mine clearance, victim assistance and risk reduction efforts as Cambodia pursues its long‑term goal of tackling the legacy of landmines and explosive remnants of war, officials said Thursday.

The draft plan, covering 2026–2029, was discussed at a meeting chaired by Senior Minister Ly Thuch, First Vice President of the Cambodian Mine Action and Victim Assistance Authority (CMAA), on June 3.

The session also reviewed progress under the National Mine Action Strategic Plan 2018–2025, with support from Norwegian People’s Aid, a longstanding partner in the sector.

Ly Thuch described the proposed plan as a key mechanism for translating the National Mine Action Policy 2026–2035 into practical programmes.

He said it would help reduce poverty, limit risks from landmines and improve safety and livelihoods in affected communities.

The minister added that effective planning and resource allocation would be essential to ensure mine action activities align with national priorities.

He urged participants to provide detailed feedback to make the plan comprehensive and responsive to current challenges.

Cambodia remains one of the world’s most mine‑affected countries after decades of conflict. Clearance and victim assistance programmes have played a vital role in improving public safety and supporting rural development.

Ly Thuch expressed appreciation to Norwegian People’s Aid for its continued cooperation, saying the organisation’s support has made an important contribution to Cambodia’s humanitarian mine action efforts.