(KPL) Vientiane, September 14, 2026 — Under overcast skies and light rain, Vientiane welcomed delegates from around the world on September 14 for the opening of the 3rd Review Conference of the Convention on Cluster Munitions (CCM), bringing together countries and organizations united by a common goal: building a world free of cluster munitions and their deadly remnants.

Held at the National Convention Centre at Km 6, the conference began with a strong sense of purpose and solidarity. From around 7:30 to 8:00 a.m., representatives of States Parties, observer states and international organizations arrived at the venue, setting the stage for several days of discussions on one of the world's most persistent humanitarian challenges.

Inside the main hall, the opening programme combined official proceedings with cultural and human stories that highlighted the Convention's importance.

A video presentation traced the journey of the CCM and its efforts to address the continuing threat of cluster munition remnants. Traditional Lao cultural performances added a warm national touch to the international gathering, while testimonies from survivors brought the human consequences of these weapons directly into the conference hall.

For many participants, the survivors' voices were among the most powerful moments of the opening day. Their personal experiences offered a reminder that the impact of cluster munitions does not end when a conflict is over. For communities living in contaminated areas, unexploded remnants can remain a threat for generations, affecting people's safety, livelihoods and opportunities.

Following the official opening address by Prime Minister Sonexay Siphandone, delegates turned their attention to the substantive work of the conference. National delegations presented reports on progress in clearance, destruction of cluster munition remnants and implementation of previous plans, reflecting the continuing efforts of States Parties to translate their commitments into concrete results.

The conference venue itself became an important part of the day's experience.

Outside the main assembly hall, exhibition areas provided delegates with an opportunity to see, at close range, the realities behind the issues under discussion. Displays included safely disarmed cluster munition remnants, modern unexploded ordnance (UXO) clearance equipment, historical photographs and information illustrating the impact of UXO on communities in Lao PDR.

The exhibits offered more than a technical demonstration. They provided an opportunity for international visitors to better understand the challenges faced by people living in areas affected by unexploded ordnance and the importance of continued international cooperation in making communities safer.

The exhibition also highlighted another important dimension of UXO-related work: helping affected people rebuild their lives.

Hand-woven silk and textile products made by persons with disabilities attracted considerable attention, while handicrafts and traditional products produced by UXO survivors were displayed for sale. The proceeds help support physical rehabilitation, vocational development and improved livelihoods, turning the exhibition into a practical expression of solidarity with people affected by the legacy of conflict.

Traditional Lao cuisine, Lao coffee and other local products added further colour to the exhibition area, giving foreign delegates an opportunity to experience aspects of Lao culture alongside the conference's humanitarian message.

Beyond the formal sessions, the outer concourse served as a lively space for informal exchanges. Foreign delegates, UXO clearance personnel and local people met, shared experiences and exchanged views, creating an atmosphere of friendship and cooperation that extended beyond the conference agenda.

These informal encounters reflected an important message of the review conference: addressing the threat of cluster munitions is not solely a matter of international agreements and technical clearance operations. It is ultimately about people—their safety, dignity, livelihoods and hopes for the future.

As the 3rd Review Conference proceeds, delegates are considering a range of critical issues under the Convention, including reaffirming commitments to permanently end the threat posed by cluster munitions, reviewing progress in implementation, accelerating the clearance and destruction of remnants, strengthening risk education, expanding assistance to victims, and enhancing international cooperation and assistance.

For Lao PDR, which continues to face the long-term humanitarian and development consequences of unexploded ordnance, the conference carries particular significance. It provides an international platform to share the country's experience, highlight the continuing needs of affected communities and strengthen partnerships aimed at making contaminated areas safer.

Against the backdrop of Vientiane's rainy September morning, the gathering therefore represented more than another international meeting. It was a meeting of governments, organizations, experts, survivors and communities around a shared responsibility—to turn international commitments into action and to ensure that future generations can live, work and grow without the fear of hidden remnants of war.

KPL