From January 2nd-5th, 2024, CSEAS’ undertook its first study tour to sites related to Cambodia’s “Win Win” strategy, marking the 20th anniversary of this pivotal policy in Cambodia’s history. Over four days and three nights, the interdisciplinary tour emphasized developing historical perspectives and analyzing human questions related to mass atrocity crimes, memorialization, and rebuilding after conflict.
The tour began at the heavily looted temple complex at Koh Ker, where the study learned from lead archaeologists, from the National Authority of Preah Vihear, about the looted site during the civil war and efforts to repatriate artifacts and restore the site. Next, we visited Anlong Veng, the final stronghold of the Khmer Rouge, to learn about its history under Ta Mok’s leadership and the dissolution of the KR Movement. Stops included Pol Pot’s gravesite. We next traveled to Siem Reap and visited APOPO and the hair rat, before ending at the impressive Win-Win Monument at Phnom Penh. We learned that armed conflict, how long or short, creates deep disruption and that sustainable peace is never by accident but comes through hard work!