| IN BRIEF
|
The return of Donald Trump at the White House awakens fears in Cambodia, particularly within non-governmental organizations engaged in operations of Minesweeper. These entities fear that American humanitarian aid, essential to the security of Cambodian lands still littered with antipersonnel mines, will be suspended. While the country has already made notable progress in mine clearance, the threat of these efforts being abruptly stopped once again raises the tragic question of the safety of vulnerable populations. This complex and precarious situation raises deep concerns, both on a human and political level.
Cambodia finds itself at a crucial turning point as the re-emergence of Donald Trump in the White House casts a worrying shadow over the future of humanitarian aid in the country, particularly for mine clearance operations. For many years, American assistance has played a key role in the fight against antipersonnel mines, and the uncertainty brought by this political change is causing great concern among NGOs and local populations.
A return to the sources of worry
Since Donald Trump announced his return to power, NGOs operating in Cambodia have expressed concern about the potential freezing of humanitarian aid funds. This fear is exacerbated by a decree that could mean the removal of essential financial support. For Cambodia, this translates into a shortfall of more than ten million dollars per year, a blow to demining efforts that saved lives and rehabilitated land.
The tragic consequences of mines
The statistics regarding mine victims in Cambodia are alarming. Since the end of the Khmer Rouge genocide in 1979, approximately 20,000 people lost their lives to the mines that remained, sleeping underground like mortal clocks. A tragic situation highlighted by poignant stories, such as that of a child injured by a mortar shell while helping his parents. These events draw attention to the need for effective and urgent demining.
The history of mine clearance in Cambodia
Cambodia has become a success story in demining, having decontaminated more than 3,297 km² since 1992. Thanks to strategic financial support, the country managed to bring together a team of 1,000 people who work tirelessly to eliminate these invisible dangers. In 2023, more than 24,000 mines were destroyed, testifying to the progress made over the years. However, this success is now threatened by the promise of a potential end to US financial aid.
Reactions from NGOs
Non-governmental organizations are on alert and fear a rollback on advances in security. The decision to freeze aid is seen as a breach of the United States’ commitment to Cambodia’s vulnerable populations. Voices are being raised to alert the world: the work done so far to guarantee the security of lands and populations could easily be destroyed by a simple political decision in Washington.
The battle for humanitarian assistance
For Cambodia, the course of events will depend closely on the actions of the American government. Pledges of support for humanity should take precedence over political issues. Humanitarian operators continue to hope that Trump will not end aid, as this would seriously jeopardize the ongoing mine clearance work and, ultimately, the lives of many people.
Conclusion: an uncertain future
As uncertainty hovers over the future of mine clearance in Cambodia, it is essential to keep our fingers crossed that decisions made by US authorities do not hamper these life-saving efforts. The lives of thousands of Cambodians depend on the country’s ability to secure its environment. The American government must take into account the impact of its choices on humanitarian realities exacerbated by the consequences of political decisions.
For more information, see this article on France TV Info or watch the report on France 24.
FAQ on mine clearance in Cambodia following the return of Donald Trump
Q: Why is mine clearance in Cambodia under threat?
A: Mine clearance is under threat due to Donald Trump’s freezing of international humanitarian aid funds, which is seriously impacting mine clearance operations in the country.
Q: How much US aid for mine clearance in Cambodia?
A: US funding for mine clearance in Cambodia amounted to more than ten million dollars per year.
Q: How many people were involved in mine clearance operations in Cambodia?
A: Approximately 1,000 people worked directly in demining operations thanks to this funding.
Q: What were the results of mine clearance operations in Cambodia in recent years?
A: The results were convincing, with more than 24,000 mines destroyed in 2023 and a vast territory cleaned.
Q: What is the situation of mine-related accidents in Cambodia?
A: Accidents remain frequent, illustrated by the case of a child injured by a mortar shell, highlighting the dangerous nature of uncleared land.