VIENTIANE, Feb. 13 (Xinhua) -- Unexploded ordnance (UXO) clearance remains a national priority in Laos, with the government continuing its efforts to remove UXO to protect communities and pave the way for the country's sustainable growth.
In a press interview marking the 30th anniversary of the Lao National Unexploded Ordnance Program, Thongloun Sisoulith, general secretary of the Lao People's Revolutionary Party (LPRP) Central Committee and Lao president, stressed that UXO clearance is crucial to restoring safety and unlocking opportunities for socio-economic growth.
He highlighted the lasting impact of UXO contamination, noting that decades of widespread bombardment devastated infrastructure, disrupted livelihoods, and significantly hindered national development, contributing to Laos' classification as a Least Developed Country.
Decades after the war, UXO continues to pose a serious threat. Around 30 percent of cluster munitions failed to detonate and remain scattered across the country, causing accidents, injuries, disabilities, and deaths each year. Many provinces remain heavily contaminated, limiting agricultural use and slowing infrastructure development.
Recognizing the dangers of UXO, residents agree that clearance is essential and must be accelerated.
Xaynoy, a white-collar worker from Xieng Khuang province, sees UXO removal as a critical step toward socio-economic development and improving living conditions across communities.
"We see in the news that UXO accidents occur every year, causing injuries and deaths while also slowing development by delaying projects and limiting investment. I believe clearing UXO is essential to boost the country's growth," Xaynoy told Xinhua.
He noted that UXO remains a persistent barrier to development. "Essential infrastructure and services, such as roads, schools, and hospitals, could have been built much faster if the land were safe to use," he said.
Highlighting the importance of agriculture, Xaynoy added, "Most Lao people rely on farming for their livelihoods. It's unfortunate that large areas of farmland cannot be fully utilized because UXO remains widespread."
In terms of livelihoods, UXO continues to devastate lives, hopes, and opportunities. Tina, a student in Vientiane, highlighted how UXO makes daily life much more difficult, particularly in rural communities where accidents often affect children. "UXO accidents can leave children disabled and cut short their opportunities to improve their lives," she said.
"It's heartbreaking that people risk their lives with every step just by trying to live, and that children simply want to play and explore in areas still contaminated with UXO," she added.
In addition, UXO contamination makes investment more difficult. Thongsai, a resident of Savannakhet, said UXO slows infrastructure development, affects tourism, and makes it harder for new businesses to grow.
He noted that Laos has a beautiful landscape and many areas with tourism potential. If the land is safe, tourism can develop further, and we could explore and unlock new hotspots for visitors.
"With safe land, roads can be built, businesses can invest, jobs can be created, and incomes can rise, improving people's lives. This is why UXO clearance is such an urgent and important task," he added.
Since its establishment on Feb. 13, 1996, the Lao National Unexploded Ordnance Program has steadily expanded operations and strengthened technical capacity. The Lao government has reaffirmed its commitment to working with international partners to enhance clearance efforts, meet international standards, and ensure that Laos becomes a truly safe land for all its people. ■