UNESCO-Backed Demining Work Expands Around Preah Vihear Temple

UNESCO-Backed Demining Work Expands Around Preah Vihear Temple

PREAH VIHEAR, May 7, 2026 — Cambodian demining teams are continuing operations to locate and remove explosive remnants around the UNESCO-listed Preah Vihear temple complex following damage caused during past clashes with Thailand, officials said on Thursday.

The Cambodian Mine Action Centre (CMAC) said its personnel were carrying out clearance work in the area surrounding the ancient temple in Choam Ksan district under a UNESCO-supported project.

According to Cambodia’s Ministry of Culture and Fine Arts, the operations are aimed at addressing unexploded ordnance and other hazardous remnants left behind after previous armed confrontations involving Thai forces along the border.

The ministry said the Preah Vihear temple complex suffered damage at 142 locations, while another 42 sites in surrounding areas were also affected by aerial bombings involving drones and fighter aircraft during the conflict.

Officials said the clearance work is essential to preserving the integrity of the historic site and ensuring safety for local communities, officials and visitors.

Preah Vihear Temple was inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List on July 7, 2008, during the organisation’s 32nd session in Quebec City, Canada. The centuries-old temple has long been a sensitive symbol in Cambodia-Thailand relations due to competing territorial claims around the surrounding border area.

CMAC has played a central role in Cambodia’s nationwide demining efforts for decades, as the country continues to deal with landmines and unexploded ordnance left from years of conflict.