Legacy of War
Between 1964 and 1973, during the height of the Vietnam War, more than two million tons of bombs were dropped in Laos. Up to a third of the bombs, or ordnance, discharged in the country did not explode and continue to maim and kill when disturbed. Thousands of people have been killed and injured since 1973, and more are hurt and killed each year in accidents caused by unexploded ordnance (UXO), particularly cluster bombs. Survivors often suffer severe abdominal, chest, hand and arm, and head injuries. About half of all UXO victims are children, who find the ball-shaped cluster munitions or “bombies” while playing near their homes in rural communities.
The QLA partners with World Education and Lao government agencies in nine provinces of Lao PDR to prevent UXO accidents and in five provinces to help UXO survivors pay for their medical costs, recover from their injuries, and return to a healthy, independent life in their communities.
The QLA partners with World Education and Lao government agencies in nine provinces of Lao PDR to prevent UXO accidents and in five provinces to help UXO survivors pay for their medical costs, recover from their injuries, and return to a healthy, independent life in their communities.
UXO Quick Facts
Lao PDR is the most heavily bombed country per capita in history.
25% of villages are contaminated by UXO.
Almost 30% of the bombs dropped on Laos failed to detonate.
Today, there are still 80 million unexploded bombs.
More than half of UXO victims are children.
25% of villages are contaminated by UXO.
Almost 30% of the bombs dropped on Laos failed to detonate.
Today, there are still 80 million unexploded bombs.
More than half of UXO victims are children.