ASEAN Collaboration on Victim Assistance Strengthened by Data Innovation
ASEAN REGIONAL MINE ACTION CENTER
02
Jan
ASEAN Collaboration on Victim Assistance Strengthened by Data Innovation
Phnom Penh, Cambodia, Session 2 of the Regional Workshop on Victim Assistance shone a spotlight on best practices and innovative data management strategies from across the ASEAN region. Expert presenters from Cambodia, Myanmar, Vietnam, Korea and APOPO shared their approaches to ensuring survivors of explosive ordnance receive timely and effective support.
Highlights included:
• Cambodia’s CMAA showcased its comprehensive data system linking victim profiles with rehabilitation services, enabling more targeted interventions for survivors.
•Myanmar’s Department of Rehabilitation emphasized the critical role of integrated support systems, which bridge medical care, social welfare, and vocational training for survivors.
•Vietnam’s MOLISA demonstrated its advancements in disability registration and information systems, empowering UXO victims with timely rehabilitation and community integration.
• Korea presented state-of-the-art digital tools and frameworks that can enhance data accuracy and inclusivity in victim assistance programs region-wide.
•APOPO provided an engaging demonstration of their data systems for operational coordination in victim support.
Participants engaged in dynamic discussions, exchanging knowledge and identifying strategies to refine victim assistance frameworks. The session laid the groundwork for strengthening regional collaboration and enhancing the capacity to address survivor needs effectively.
Stay tuned for updates as the workshop continues to focus on finalizing the Regional Victim Assistance Guideline and fostering greater collaboration across ASEAN.
02
Jan
Highlights from our Regional Workshop: Strengthening Victim Assistance Networks
ARMAC Champions Data-Driven Solutions for Victim Assistance Across ASEAN
Phnom Penh, Cambodia — The first session of the Regional Workshop on Victim Assistance brought together leaders from across ASEAN to share strategies for strengthening the Victim Assistance Network (VAN) and advancing data management systems.
– Thailand-Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities (DEP) of Ministry of Social Development and Human Security: Focused on integrating disability data with victim assistance, highlighting initiatives like the “One-Stop Service” system and assistive devices for empowering survivors.
– Vietnam (VNMAC): Stressed the importance of standardized data platforms like IMSMA NG and policies for integrating victim assistance into national frameworks.
– Lao PDR (NRA): Addressed gaps in localizing UXO victim data and emphasized capacity building to ensure accurate and actionable data collection.
-Thailand Mine Action Center (TMAC): Advocated for improved interagency coordination and innovative approaches to addressing victim needs at the grassroots level.
The session underscored the critical role of collaboration, with participants agreeing on the need for standardized tools and inclusive policies to ensure no survivor is left behind.
The day began with panel discussions on strengthening the Victim Assistance Network (VAN) and concluded with lively exchanges of best practices on data management for survivor support. Participants left with key documents to review, ensuring tomorrow’s sessions are action-focused and productive.
Stay tuned for more highlights as the workshop continues!
02
Jan
ARMAC Champions Data-Driven Solutions for Victim Assistance Across ASEAN
ARMAC Champions Data-Driven Solutions for Victim Assistance Across ASEAN
Phnom Penh, Cambodia, 17 December 2024, marked the opening of the Regional Workshop on Promoting Collaboration and Cooperation in Victim Assistance through Data Management for ASEAN Member States at the prestigious Raffles Hotel Le Royal in Phnom Penh, Cambodia.
Co-hosted by the ASEAN Regional Mine Action Center (ARMAC) and the Cambodian Mine Action and Victim Assistance Authority (CMAA), this workshop brings together distinguished leaders, experts, and advocates to refine regional collaboration and finalize the Regional Victim Assistance Guideline. The initiative is proudly supported by the Government of the Republic of Korea through the ASEAN-Korea Cooperation Fund.
In her opening remarks, Ms. Rothna Buth, Executive Director of ARMAC, highlighted the significance of this workshop, stating:
“This gathering reflects the spirit of unity, compassion, and resilience that defines ASEAN. Together, we are not just addressing the technical challenges but ensuring that survivors’ voices are heard, their dignity restored, and their futures rebuilt.”
Representing the Republic of Korea, Ms. Baek Sun-woo, First Secretary of the Embassy of Korea to Cambodia, shared a message on behalf of Ambassador H.E. Mr. Park Jung-wook. She underscored the Republic of Korea’s steadfast commitment to regional humanitarian efforts, emphasizing that the ASEAN-Korea partnership serves as a global model for impactful collaboration.
H.E. Dr. Ly Thuch, Senior Minister and First Vice President of CMAA, delivered a powerful keynote address, commending ASEAN’s collective leadership and Cambodia’s role in global mine action. He reminded participants:
“Let us show the world what it truly means to honor the rights, dignity, and courage of survivors by setting a new benchmark in victim assistance and collaboration.”
The day began with panel discussions on strengthening the Victim Assistance Network (VAN) and concluded with lively exchanges of best practices on data management for survivor support. Participants left with key documents to review, ensuring tomorrow’s sessions are action-focused and productive.
This workshop is more than a meeting—it is a commitment to a future where no survivor is left behind. Together, ASEAN nations are creating a legacy of resilience, innovation, and collaboration.
Stay tuned for more updates from the workshop as we work towards transforming victim assistance across ASEAN.
16
Dec
ARMAC Engages in Regional Dialogue on Humanitarian Mine Action
ARMAC Engages in Regional Dialogue on Humanitarian Mine Action
Ms. Rothna Buth, Executive Director of ARMAC, participated in the 14th ASEAN Defence Ministers’ Meeting-Plus (ADMM-Plus) Experts’ Working Group on Humanitarian Mine Action (HMA) from December 9-12, 2024, in Vang Vieng, Lao PDR.
This significant meeting, co-chaired by Lao PDR and the Russian Federation, provided a platform for discussing solutions to the challenges posed by explosive remnants of war (ERW). ARMAC highlighted its ongoing efforts in mine action, focusing on regional cooperation to create safer, mine-free communities across ASEAN.
Key Contributions by ARMAC:
– Presented progress and achievements in mine action.
– Promoted capacity-building and best practices in the field. -Fostered stronger collaboration among regional and international partners.
ARMAC is dedicated to advancing humanitarian mine action, supporting victims, and contributing to sustainable development across the region.
Together, we move closer to a mine-free ASEAN!
03
Dec
Reflecting on the 5th Review Conference
Reflecting on the 5th Review Conference
A heartfelt congratulations to Cambodia for successfully hosting the 5th Review Conference of the Anti-Personnel Mine Ban Convention, marking the first time this important event has taken place in the ASEAN region. This achievement not only highlights Cambodia’s leadership in the field of mine action but also sets a strong example for regional cooperation in addressing the humanitarian impacts of landmines and explosive remnants of war.
During the five-day conference, ARMAC was proud to introduce the S.A.F.E. Chatbot (Saving All From Explosive Ordnance), an innovative AI-driven prototype designed to enhance Explosive Ordnance Risk Education (EORE) across ASEAN. It was inspiring to witness so many participants engage with the chatbot and test its potential as a life-saving resource, helping us move closer to our goal of a mine-free ASEAN.
We were deeply honored by the presence of distinguished leaders and stakeholders, including Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet, Deputy Prime Minister H.E. Neth Savoeun, Senior Minister H.E. Ly Thuch, H.E. Armida Salsiah Alisjahbana, Executive Secretary of the United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (ESCAP), H.E. Martin Chungong, Secretary General of the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU), Ambassador Tobias Privitelli, Director of GICHD, Prince Mired Bin Raad Bin Zeid Al Hussein, Special Envoy on the Universalization of the APMBC, and numerous ASEAN ambassadors, delegates, donors, partners, and stakeholders.
Your support and active participation in the conference reaffirmed our collective commitment to advancing mine action and ensuring a safer future for all.
This event also served as a powerful reminder of the importance of collaboration, innovation, and shared responsibility in building a safer, more secure world. We look forward to continuing our partnerships and working together to make the vision of a mine-free ASEAN a reality.
Together, we are not only addressing the challenges of today but also creating a brighter, safer future for the generations to come.
02
Dec
A Step Forward in Enhancing Victim Assistance Across ASEAN
A Step Forward in Enhancing Victim Assistance Across ASEAN
We are thrilled to have participated in the Mine Action Working Group (MAWG) meeting in Hanoi, Vietnam, where we had the privilege to present the Feasibility Study on Physical Rehabilitation and Mental Health Support for Explosive Ordnance (EO) Victims and Persons with Disabilities, under the ASEAN-Korea Cooperation Fund Project.
This study is a key component of our Enhance Victim Assistance Programme in ASEAN Member States, aimed at providing crucial support for those affected by landmines and explosive remnants of war. The presentation sparked important discussions with our partners, and we are incredibly grateful for the invaluable feedback received from all attendees.
A heartfelt thank you to our partners at VNMAC, the Chair and Co-Chair from UNDP, and PeaceTree Vietnam for your continued collaboration and commitment to the project. Your efforts are vital in bringing attention to the voices of victims and ensuring their needs are heard.
We also had the opportunity to brief our partners on the upcoming 5th Review Conference and share the latest updates from the International Secretariat Unit (ISU) on the progress of the Anti-Personnel Mine Ban Convention.
This event marked a significant step forward in our mission to enhance victim assistance, raise awareness, and strengthen cooperation across the region. We are also excited about the Victim Voices Documentary project, which will further amplify the experiences of those impacted by EO.
Thank you to all the NGOs, task force members, and CMAA for their active participation and unwavering support. Together, we continue to build a more inclusive, safer, and resilient ASEAN.
Let’s keep working hand in hand for a brighter future for all.
25
Nov
SAFE: A Game-Changer in Risk Education!
Spotlight on SAFE Chatbot 25 Nov 2024 
SAFE: A Game-Changer in Risk Education!
LIVE from the Siem Reap-Angkor Summit, ARMAC’s innovative SAFE (Saving All From EO) chatbot is stealing the spotlight!
Interactive. Multilingual. Accessible via popular messaging apps.SAFE is empowering communities with real-time guidance on recognizing and avoiding landmines and unexploded ordnance (UXO).
Delegates, including Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet, Deputy Prime Minister H.E. Neth Savoeun and Senior Minister H.E. Ly Thuch, have experienced SAFE in action at our booth!
ARMAC is proud to lead the way in using technology to save lives. Want to support this lifesaving mission?
Join us in scaling SAFE across ASEAN Member States!
Email us at: secretariat@aseanmineaction.org
14
Nov
Our Executive Director, Rothna Buth, made a powerful call to action at the World Urban Forum 12 in Cairo!
November 8, 2024 – Cairo, Egypt
Our Executive Director, Rothna Buth, made a powerful call to action at the World Urban Forum 12 in Cairo! Addressing leaders from around the globe, Rothna highlighted the critical role of demining in ASEAN’s journey toward sustainable development and post-conflict recovery. She spoke passionately about transforming contaminated lands into safe, thriving spaces for communities, leveraging the latest technologies and partnerships to accelerate these efforts.
Joined by key figures like Vugar Suleymanov from Azerbaijan’s Mine Action Agency and Bojan Glamočlija from Serbia’s Mine Action Centre, the session “Clearing the Path for Post-Conflict Recovery” underscored the importance of innovative, people-centered mine action strategies. Rothna shared ARMAC’s dedication to not only clearing explosive remnants but also supporting survivors through rehabilitation and socioeconomic inclusion. “Clearing landmines is more than removing remnants of war; it’s a humanitarian mission that restores dignity, hope, and a better future,” she said.
This commitment extends to pioneering solutions like AI, robotics, and remote sensing applications, which make demining safer and more effective. The ASEAN Regional Victim Assistance Network, a key initiative championed by Rothna, continues to ensure that survivors across the region receive the support they need to rebuild their lives.
A special thank you to the Mine Action Agency of Azerbaijan (ANAMA) for organizing this impactful event and bringing together voices from across the world committed to post-conflict recovery. Together, we can turn reclaimed land into sites of resilience and opportunity, clearing the path to a safe and vibrant future.
07
Nov
Last Saturday, as we visited survivors and their families in Thailand’s explosive ordnance (EO) affected areas
“Last Saturday, as we visited survivors and their families in Thailand’s explosive ordnance (EO) affected areas, we were deeply moved by the resilience and strength shown by each individual. Behind every statistic lies a personal story—a story of survival, courage, and hope amid life-altering challenges.”
The ARMAC team, joined by our dedicated partners from SingHealth, Prof. Cho Jai Kook from Yonsei University, Ms. Leila El Ali -physiologist, and our national consultant Dr. Pornpimon Prasongporn, listened firsthand to these accounts. Together, we’re not just here to document the journey of survivors but to act on it, understanding the true scope of their needs in order to bring tailored support and sustainable solutions to Thailand and beyond.
This field visit underscores our commitment to a future where every survivor has access to essential care and the opportunity to rebuild their lives with dignity. Our work is strengthened by the tireless support of the ASEAN-Korea Cooperation Fund, making this journey toward recovery and inclusion possible.
“Each story reminds us why we’re here—to ensure that no survivor’s journey is walked alone. Together, we are dedicated to a region where every survivor finds healing, empowerment, and a hopeful path forward.”
07
Nov
The Voice of Victims Journey Begins: A Story of Resilience, Hope, and Unity Across ASEAN
The Voice of Victims Journey Begins: A Story of Resilience, Hope, and Unity Across ASEAN
Today, we are honored to launch the “Voice of Victims” journey, a project dedicated to amplifying the voices of survivors of explosive ordnance (EO) in ASEAN countries. This initiative begins in Thailand and will continue through Laos, Vietnam and Cambodia, capturing the experiences, challenges, and resilience of EO survivors who have been impacted by the legacy of explosive remnants of war.
Listening to their stories helps us remember why the work of ASEAN Member States and the ASEAN Regional Mine Action Center (ARMAC) is so vital. The voices of these survivors remind us not only of the human cost of conflict but of the power of resilience and the importance of community and support. By sharing their journeys, we aim to shine a light on both the challenges they continue to face and the spirit of hope and strength that sustains them.
A heartfelt thank you to the ASEAN-Korean Cooperation Fund, whose support has been instrumental in making this project a reality. We are also deeply grateful to the Prince Foundation for their remarkable team, who are capturing these stories with care and dedication. Together, we are committed to building a safer, more inclusive future for all.
Stay tuned as we share the voices of these incredible individuals, whose courage and tenacity inspire us to continue our mission with renewed purpose.
Sidebar: