Blog

21 Feb
ARMAC Delegation Strengthens Victim Assistance Efforts in Lao PDR
ARMAC Delegation Strengthens Victim Assistance Efforts in Lao PDR
Building on our earlier visit to the Department of Foreign Affairs, the ARMAC delegation continued its mission to enhance victim assistance by visiting the Provincial Medical Rehabilitation Center and the Xieng Khouang Provincial Hospital. These visits provided valuable insights into the challenges faced by survivors of explosive ordnance (EO) incidents and persons with disabilities (PWDs).
At the Provincial Medical Rehabilitation Center, our team was warmly received by Dr. Khamsouk Phimsimmavong, head of the center, and the technical staff, who provided a comprehensive overview of the center’s services. We observed the full process of prosthetic limb production—from initial fitting to final adjustments—highlighting the critical role these services play in restoring mobility and independence. Despite their dedication, the team faces challenges such as resource constraints and the need for expanded support.
At Xieng Khouang Provincial Hospital, we toured the facilities providing care for EO survivors and PWDs under the leadership of Dr. Khamhoo Bounphamala. Despite limited resources, the hospital remains committed to delivering essential medical services and rehabilitation support to those in need.
We extend our gratitude to the Republic of Korea (RoK) and the ASEAN-Korea Cooperation Fund (AKCF) for their continued support in strengthening victim assistance services. Their contributions are instrumental in enhancing rehabilitation, promoting socioeconomic inclusion, and improving the quality of life for survivors and their families.
ARMAC remains committed to turning these insights into actionable recommendations, working closely with national and regional partners to ensure that EO survivors and PWDs receive the comprehensive care, rehabilitation, and social support they deserve.
11 Feb
we had the pleasure of hosting a productive follow-up meeting with Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) to discuss our ongoing collaboration
Yesterday, we had the pleasure of hosting a productive follow-up meeting with Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) to discuss our ongoing collaboration. It was a great opportunity to review our partnership and explore further opportunities for cooperation.
We were honored to have Ms. Komukai Eri, Senior Advisor, Mr. Akahane Shuta, Officer at Peacebuilding Office, and Mr. Asada Yoshinori, JICA Advisor, join us for this important discussion.
We would like to extend our sincere thanks to JICA for selecting ARMAC as one of their partners. This collaboration will further strengthen our joint efforts in building sustainable, inclusive communities across the ASEAN region.
Together, we are working towards a safer, more resilient future.
27 Jan
ARMAC’s Executive Director Ms Rothna Buth, alongside the ARMAC team, had the honor of meeting with H.E. Ly Thuch, Senior Minister and First Vice President of the Cambodian Mine Action and Victim Assistance Authority (CMAA)

ARMAC’s Executive Director Ms Rothna Buth, alongside the ARMAC team, had the honor of meeting with H.E. Ly Thuch, Senior Minister and First Vice President of the Cambodian Mine Action and Victim Assistance Authority (CMAA)

Today, ARMAC’s Executive Director Ms Rothna Buth, alongside the ARMAC team, had the honor of meeting with H.E. Ly Thuch, Senior Minister and First Vice President of the Cambodian Mine Action and Victim Assistance Authority (CMAA).
This meeting underscored ARMAC’s enduring commitment to strengthening partnerships and advancing collaborative mine action efforts in Cambodia and across the ASEAN region.
ARMAC congratulates CMAA on its remarkable achievements in tackling the challenges posed by landmines and explosive remnants of war (ERW).
These efforts, guided by the vision and leadership of H.E. Ly Thuch, exemplify the dedication needed to ensure safety, resilience, and sustainable development for affected communities.
ARMAC remains steadfast in its mission to foster regional cooperation, share best practices, and promote inclusive victim assistance services in line with international standards.
Our collaboration with CMAA plays a pivotal role in achieving the shared goal of a mine-free and prosperous ASEAN region.
We extend our sincere gratitude to CMAA for its unwavering support and leadership, and we look forward to further strengthening this partnership.
Together, we will continue making significant strides toward alleviating the humanitarian impact of mines and ERW.
17 Jan
The ASEAN Regional Mine Action Center (ARMAC) is honored to host Mr. John Edgar, Director of the USAID ASEAN Office
The ASEAN Regional Mine Action Center (ARMAC) is honored to host Mr. John Edgar, Director of the USAID ASEAN Office, Ms. Kathy Tin, Deputy Director, and Ms. Ella Hoxha, Chief of Party of the ASEAN-USAID Partnership Program, during their visit to the ARMAC Secretariat.
The productive discussions, attended by Rothna Buth, ARMAC’s Executive Director, explored opportunities for advancing mine action across the ASEAN region through strengthened collaboration. Key topics included enhancing regional cooperation, building capacity, and promoting critical priorities such as victim assistance, gender inclusion, and innovative solutions to mine action challenges.
We extend our heartfelt thanks to the Permanent Mission of the Kingdom of Cambodia to ASEAN and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation for facilitating this meaningful engagement.
This dialogue reaffirmed our shared commitment to supporting communities affected by explosive ordnance and furthering ARMAC’s vision of becoming a center of excellence in humanitarian mine action. Together, we aim to build a safer and more resilient ASEAN region.
16 Jan
ARMAC represented by our Executive Director, Ms. Rothna Buth, had the distinct privilege of meeting with His Excellency Deputy Prime Minister Prak Sokhonn, Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation of the Kingdom of Cambodia

ARMAC represented by our Executive Director, Ms. Rothna Buth, had the distinct privilege of meeting with His Excellency Deputy Prime Minister Prak Sokhonn, Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation of the Kingdom of Cambodia

On 15 January 2025, ARMAC represented by our Executive Director, Ms. Rothna Buth, had the distinct privilege of meeting with His Excellency Deputy Prime Minister Prak Sokhonn, Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation of the Kingdom of Cambodia. As a founding figure of the ASEAN Regional Mine Action Center (ARMAC), His Excellency has been an unwavering advocate for ARMAC’s mission to promote peace, security, and sustainable development throughout ASEAN.
Cambodia has long played a vital role in ARMAC’s success. As ARMAC’s primary financial supporter, the Royal Government of Cambodia, through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation (MFAIC), ensures the sustainability of critical efforts to address the humanitarian impact of landmines and explosive remnants of war (ERW). This steadfast commitment reflects Cambodia’s broader dedication to fostering regional cooperation, improving the lives of affected communities, and realizing the vision of a mine-free ASEAN.
During our meeting, His Excellency Deputy Prime Minister shared valuable insights that will guide ARMAC in expanding its impact and strengthening initiatives focused on victim assistance, risk education, and regional collaboration. His Excellency’s leadership exemplifies the spirit of partnership and collaboration that ARMAC seeks to inspire across ASEAN—building safer communities and empowering those affected by explosive ordnance.
ARMAC expresses its heartfelt gratitude to Royal Government of Cambodia for its enduring support and to our development partners for their shared commitment to this vital mission. Together, we remain resolute in our vision of a safer, more prosperous future for all.
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.

#ARMAC #MineAction #InnovationForSafety #SiemReapAngkorSummit #5RC

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.
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