KPL
The Lao People’s Democratic Republic (Lao PDR), represented by a delegation from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, participated in the opening of the 13th Annual Meeting of States Parties to the Convention on Cluster Munitions (CCM), held from September 16 to 19, 2025, at the United Nations Office in Geneva, Switzerland.
This year’s meeting is chaired by the Ambassador and Permanent Representative of the Philippines to the UN in Geneva, with participation from more than 112 member and observer states, alongside representatives from international organizations and research institutions.
The Lao PDR delegation is led by Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs, Mr. Anouparb Vongnorkeo, who delivered remarks during the general debate, emphasizing the enduring importance of the Convention. This year's session also marks the 15th anniversary of the treaty’s entry into force in 2010.
For the Lao PDR, the CCM remains a critical framework in addressing the legacy of unexploded ordnance (UXO), supporting victim assistance, expanding risk education, and guiding the development of national strategies. Notably, it underpins the implementation of the Safe Path III UXO strategy (2021–2030) and Sustainable Development Goal 18: “Lives Safe from UXO.”
Despite progress, the Lao PDR continues to grapple with significant challenges. An estimated 80 million unexploded cluster munitions are still scattered across its territory, posing daily threats to lives and livelihoods, and impeding national development. Amid declining levels of international assistance, the Lao delegation appealed for sustained global support to address this humanitarian crisis.
Deputy Minister Anouparb also called for international cooperation as the Lao PDR prepares to host the 3rd Review Conference of the CCM in Vientiane in 2026.
On the sidelines of the meeting, the Lao delegation organized an exhibition featuring posters and artwork illustrating the human toll of UXO contamination. In collaboration with Ireland, the Permanent Mission of the Lao PDR co-hosted a side event titled “The Lao PDR’s Path of Implementing the Convention on Cluster Munitions over 15 Years.” The session reviewed progress, shared best practices, and fostered dialogue among states parties.
Speaking at the event, Deputy Minister Anouparb underscored Lao PDR’s tragic distinction as the most heavily bombed country per capita in history. He highlighted the urgency of continued clearance and victim support, noting that the Lao PDR’s achievements to date have been made possible through close cooperation among the government, international partners, civil society, and affected communities. He called for “joint international efforts” and “stronger solidarity” to ensure a safer and more secure future.
Other speakers included the Ambassadors of Ireland, the Philippines, and Norway, as well as Lao PDR’s Ambassador to Geneva, Mr. Daovy Vongxay, who presented a comprehensive report on 15 years of CCM implementation.
Delegates also viewed a short documentary titled “Traces That Remain: Voices of UXO Survivors and the Lao PDR’s Progress in Addressing UXO Problems,” which showcased clearance operations and survivor testimonies.
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