Germany Praises Cambodia’s Decades-Long Mine Clearance Efforts
Germany Praises Cambodia’s Decades-Long Mine Clearance Efforts
PHNOM PENH, September 3, 2026 — Germany has reaffirmed its support for Cambodia’s long-running mine-action efforts as the country officially launches its National Mine Action Policy 2026–2035, a 10-year roadmap aimed at achieving a mine-free Cambodia.
In a message marking the launch, Germany said Cambodia’s decades-long efforts to address the legacy of conflict have made communities safer while helping restore land, rebuild livelihoods and create opportunities for future generations.
Germany also paid tribute to Cambodian deminers, describing them as brave women and men who often put their lives at risk to protect others. It praised their courage, professionalism and dedication in carrying out mine-clearance operations.
The German side said its partnership with Cambodia reflects a shared commitment to reducing the humanitarian consequences of landmines and explosive remnants of war (ERW), while supporting affected communities in building safer and more prosperous futures.
Cambodia officially launched the National Mine Action Policy 2026–2035 on September 2. Under the policy, the country aims to clear all known landmine-contaminated areas by 2030, while addressing known cluster-munition contamination and priority ERW areas by 2035.
According to the policy, Cambodia cleared about 3,541 square kilometres of contaminated land between 1992 and 2025 and destroyed more than 1.2 million anti-personnel mines, 26,700 anti-tank mines and 3.24 million ERWs. However, around 1,749 square kilometres remains contaminated, including areas affected by landmines, cluster munitions and other ERWs.
UNDP, which has supported Cambodia’s mine-action sector for decades, said the new policy provides an ambitious vision for a Cambodia free from the impact of explosive ordnance and linked mine action with sustainable livelihoods, peace, stability and development.
Germany said Cambodia’s experience demonstrates what can be achieved through determination, expertise and international cooperation, adding that the ultimate goal is to ensure future generations can live, work and prosper safely on cleared land.
