HELP
SAVE ANGKOR WAT
The evictions at Angkor Wat highlight the widespread issue of land grabs and land evictions in our country — which is a significant concern for the Khmer people.
These overlooked evictions have been occuring for decades and are escalating at an alarming rate. They deserve immediate priority attention today, before it’s too late.
Angkor Wat represents the latest and most severe example of this ongoing issue, which is rapidly growing. It’s time to challenge the Hun Manet/Hun Sen regime.
Angkor Wat is a symbol of our heritage and the soul of our people
Angkor Wat, built in the early 12th century, was the capital of the Khmer Empire and remains the largest religious monument in the world. This stunning structure influenced all monuments across Southeast Asia, beautifully showcasing Cambodia’s rich culture and traditions. Angkor Wat stands as a powerful symbol of Cambodian pride and cultural identity.
It is now our responsibility to protect, preserve and safeguard Angkor Wat.
If no action is taken, our heritage will be lost forever.
"Cambodia has endured centuries of devastation and carnage, from the destruction of ancient ruins to the defilement of its rich culture and natural beauty. We have faced relentless invasions, forcing countless people into foreign lands and leaving others to fight for indigenous recognition, seek political asylum, or endure inescapable indoctrination."
"Right now, we, the Khmer people, are witnessing the dissipation of our nation’s sovereignty and territorial integrity. Angkor Wat stands as the last symbol of our distinct and powerful identity - with its removal, we are surrendering towards unwanted assimilation. In this crucial time, we must transform our fears and anger into courage and action."
— Thayvie Sinn, Founder and President of Save Cambodia
Angkor Wat Needs Our Help Now More Than Ever
Amnesty International’s November 2023 report, "No One Wants To Leave Their Home" documents 'mass illegal evictions' by the Cambodian government, displacing over 10,000 families from the Angkor Wat Heritage Site region.
Despite the World Heritage Agreement, which guarantees that long-term residents of Angkor Wat's traditional villages will not be evicted under any circumstances, UNESCO has failed or refused to enforce this commitment.
As an NGO with UN special consultative status, we are committed to holding the Cambodian government and corporations accountable. We will be working closely with Amnesty, UNESCO, and the World Heritage Committee and the Khmer Community to stop these evictions and draw international attention to these violations.
On behalf of the Khmer Community and evictees, we have filed and sent two Complaints regarding this issue on 11 July 2024: 1) A major complaint to UNESCO’s Paris Headquarters, and 2) A separate complaint to the World Heritage Committee during their July 21-31 meeting, focusing on UNESCO’s failure to enforce the Agreement. We will also provide ways for you to get involved. Learn more and joining us in our efforts below.
You can read the Complaints here:
Complaint to UNESCO
Complaint to World Heritage Committee
How You Can Join The Campaign and Help Save Angkor Wat
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When Angkor Wat is Lost,
It's Gone Forever
Angkor Wat tells a story — of Cambodia's rich history and the Khmer Empire, and the essence of Cambodian identity. Individuals by nature, unified as one by country.
Help protect Cambodia culture and preserve one of the world’s most beautiful living heritage sites. Spread the word and involve influential figures to hold corrupt governments, corporations, and agencies accountable for disregarding human rights and the UNESCO World Heritage Site Agreement.
It’s not just about the relics; it's about preserving the Cambodian identity. Join the initiative—your voice matters. Together, we can safeguard Angkor Wat for future generations.