The second meeting of the Royal Government’s Task Force, led by H.E. VONGSEY Vissoth, focused on the ECCC’s residual functions and the establishment of a Legacy Institution. This initiative aims to manage archives, promote education on genocide prevention, and reinforce collaboration with national and international partners. The meeting also planned for the National Day of Remembrance on May 20, 2025, emphasizing commemorative efforts.
On March 12, 2025, H.E. VONGSEY Vissoth, the Permanent Deputy Prime Minister, led the second meeting of the Royal Government’s Task Force focused on collaborating with the United Nations and development partners for the ECCC’s residual functions. Key attendees included H.E. KEO Remy, Senior Minister and Chairman of the Cambodian Human Rights Commission, alongside representatives from 14 related ministries and institutions.
Deputy Prime Minister VONGSEY expressed gratitude to former Prime Minister HUN SEN for his role in establishing the ECCC as a model hybrid court. This court, which permits victim participation, has significantly contributed to national reconciliation, aligning with the objectives of the Paris Peace Accords and Cambodia’s win-win policy, reinforcing the nation’s territorial integrity.
The Deputy Prime Minister highlighted the leadership of Prime Minister HUN MANET in building upon HUN SEN’s legacy of maintaining peace and sustainable development. Following a progress report from H.E. HEM Kranh Tony, the Deputy Prime Minister commended the ECCC’s 16-year achievements from 2006 to 2022. The emphasis was on preserving historical truths to aid national reconciliation and prevent future atrocities.
The meeting considered a Draft Concept Paper to establish an ECCC Legacy Institution, aimed at four key objectives: managing and preserving ECCC archives; promoting training and research on ECCC achievements; enhancing public education on atrocity prevention; and collaborating with institutions for peace education and transitional justice.
The envisioned legacy institution will be a national entity encouraging collaboration with both national and international partners. It will focus on promoting the ECCC’s legacy, offering support to Khmer Rouge victims, and fostering a culture of justice and development in Cambodia.
A significant decision was made regarding the National Day of Remembrance on May 20, 2025, emphasizing a broader commemorative approach. The Deputy Prime Minister urged national ministries to engage actively to prevent genocide and preserve long-lasting peace and development in Cambodia.
The second meeting of the Royal Government’s Task Force underscored the significance of the ECCC in promoting national reconciliation and preventing future conflicts. The proposed establishment of an ECCC Legacy Institution aims to preserve historical records, enhance educational outreach, and foster international collaboration. Combined efforts are directed toward commemorating the National Day of Remembrance and actively engaging various stakeholders to ensure lasting peace in Cambodia.
Original Source: www.phnompenhpost.com
