Laos Revealed: A Story of Culture, Challenge, and Change

Overview:                                                                                                                                              Hi, everyone, this is Alan Pecor. I am the sole author of this blog. Please disregard any spelling and grammar errors because blogging is not my main occupation. Apologies aside, this post is perhaps one of the most important articles I have created because it brings attention to an issue that I will never forget. This issue was brought to my attention through volunteering in Laos last year (see Figure 1 below). Let me share with you a journey that has forever changed my perspective.

Figure 1: Me Looking at Nong Khiaw Laos 

Volunteer Background:                                                                                                     In 2023, I took some time off work and ventured to Laos, a landlocked country bordered by Vietnam, Cambodia, Thailand, Myanmar, and China. My mission was twofold: to teach English and engage in environmental projects, including permaculture, which seeks to foster sustainable and self-sufficient communities. In addition to having the privilege of being immersed in Laos's culture, I was able to learn about a part of history that isn't commonly known. Amidst the breathtaking landscapes (shown in Figure 2 below) and the warmth of the local community, I became educated about the silent menace lurking beneath the soil—the legacy of unexploded ordnances (UXOs).

Laos Since the Vietnam War:                                                                                  Laos remains scarred by its title as the most heavily bombed country per capita in history, a consequence of over two million tons of ordnance dropped during the Vietnam War. Decades later, approximately 30% of these explosives still menace the land, claiming lives and limbs with chilling regularity. The United States, responsible for this enduring hazard, has contributed over $230 million towards clearance efforts—a figure dwarfed by the $13.3 billion (inflation-adjusted) spent on the bombing campaign. This stark disparity underscores a glaring need for increased investment in UXO clearance, a task complicated by Laos's rugged terrain and the inherent dangers of detecting buried explosives.

Figure 2: Looking at UXO Shells at UXO Visitors Centre Luang Prabang Laos

The magnitude of the problem is overwhelming, with an estimated 80 million undetonated cluster bombs continuing to pose a fatal threat to civilians. The challenge of locating these UXOs is daunting, hindered by technological and logistical constraints, yet the human cost of inaction is far greater. Referring to Figure (X), here are a few examples of UXOs that I observed at the UXO Lao History Museum, illustrating the grave reality on the ground. For further insight into the impact of UXOs, I recommend watching the video below:

UAS and UXO Removal:                                                    Innovatively, some UAVs are emerging as a critical tool in the daunting task of UXO detection. Equipped with advanced sensors and AI-driven software, UAVs can safely and efficiently survey vast areas, identifying potential UXO sites without risking human lives. Organizations like the Demining Research Community are at the forefront, pioneering the use of remote sensing, machine learning, and robotics to enhance the accuracy and safety of demining operations. This approach not only promises to accelerate the clearance process but also represents a significant leap towards safeguarding future generations from the horrors of past conflicts. For a deeper understanding of how UAV technology aids in UXO removal, watch the below video: 

Conclusion:                                                                                                                              Reflecting on my time in Laos, I'm struck by the juxtaposition of its serene beauty against the hidden dangers that lie beneath. It's not my intention to portray Laos as dangerous, but it is absolutely unacceptable to ignore that innocent people are still at risk. The resilience of its people, their unwavering spirit in the face of adversity, and the innovative strides being made towards a safer future are a testament to the enduring hope that defines Laos. As we witness the potential of drone technology to mitigate the UXO threat, we're reminded of the power of human ingenuity in overcoming the remnants of war. I plan to volunteer in Laos again in the future, driven by a conviction that our collective efforts can bring about real change. This belief reinforces the notion that, no matter who you are or what your opinion is, we all have the capacity to contribute to a better world—and that includes me.