KPL
The Lao PDR has destroyed more than 2 million unexploded ordnance (UXO) items since clearance operations began in 1996, according to the National Regulatory Authority (NRA) for the UXO/Mine Action Sector. A total of 2,065,101 UXO items have been cleared, returning 99,580 hectares of land for agriculture, housing and development.
(KPL) The Lao PDR has destroyed more than 2 million unexploded ordnance (UXO) items since clearance operations began in 1996, according to the National Regulatory Authority (NRA) for the UXO/Mine Action Sector. A total of 2,065,101 UXO items have been cleared, returning 99,580 hectares of land for agriculture, housing and development.
Bounpeng Sisavath, Head of the NRA Office, said the national UXO programme — implemented in cooperation with international partners — continues to make steady progress. Under the 10th National Socio-Economic Development Plan (2026–2030), annual targets include non-technical surveys in 600 villages, confirmation of 25,000 hectares of hazardous areas, clearance of 7,500 hectares, and UXO risk-education activities in 1,500 villages. The plan also calls for expanding education on UXO safety across 500 institutions and providing rehabilitation support to 1,200 UXO survivors each year.
Bounpeng emphasised that despite major advances, UXO contamination remains a serious and complex challenge requiring sustained national commitment and strong leadership from Party and State institutions.
UXO risk education remains a cornerstone of the programme. From 1996 to August 2025, awareness activities were conducted in 4,418 villages through 41,205 sessions, reaching over 5.6 million people — including more than 2.7 million women and girls. These efforts have helped communities better understand UXO dangers and prevent accidents.
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