Modern History

Uncovering the Legacy of the Laos War

Ban Na Phia, Xieng Khouang-Bomb
Cluster bomb shells are collected and melted down to be repurposed into spoons, forks, and can openers.
Ban Na Phia, Xieng Khouang
Unexploded ordnances are safely defused and preserved as part of a collection.
Ban Tha Jok
Cluster bomb shells are repurposed as fencing materials for properties
Ban Na Phia, Xieng Khouang
Parts recovered from unexploded ordnance, airplane wings, tanks, and bombs are melted down and reused to create spoons, forks, and can openers.
During the Cold War, due to Laos’ proximity to Vietnam, the United States conducted a large-scale bombing campaign in Laos to combat North Vietnamese Forces. During this campaign over Indochina, the United States dropped many types of ordnances from its vast fleet of jets and bombers every 8 minutes for 9 years straight, with the exception nuclear weapons. Although the country was not formally involved in the conflict, Laos bore the burnt of this aerial assault with over two million tons of ordnance dropped within its borders that continues to impact the Lao people today. Many rural areas in Laos still feel the rippling effects of the bombings. According to the National Regulatory Authority (NRA) in Laos, approximately 1% of all unexploded ordnance has been cleared to date. Mines and other explosives continue to pose a risk to civilians engaging in their daily activities. Children kicking a ball or playing tag and farmers working in fields are at risk daily. In addition, limited public infrastructure beyond the city restricts access to essential services and economic opportunities. Many individuals in rural Lao communities face barriers to obtaining resources or relocating outside their villages. This limitation particularly impacts rural schools, where resources and funding are often limited. Together, with your help, our mission is to support underserved communities and advance educational opportunities for children. We aim to empower these children to reach their full potential and lead meaningful, successful lives and contribute to the global village we share.
Ban Na Phia, Xieng Khouang-Bomb
The Ongoing Impact

Help Us Heal The Wounds of War Through Education