As Cambodia prepares to commemorate Victory Over Genocide Day on January 7, the nation reflects on its painful history under the Khmer Rouge regime and its ongoing journey of healing and reconciliation. For nearly fifty years, Cambodians have carried the weight of trauma caused by the genocide that devastated families, communities, and institutions.

The Documentation Center of Cambodia (DC-Cam) remains at the forefront of this healing process. Its 2025 Action Plan prioritizes peace, memory, and transformation. According to Director Youk Chhang, peace and healing are inseparable from confronting and acknowledging the past. Through education, outreach, and survivor support, DC-Cam aims to ensure that Cambodia’s history is preserved and its lessons are passed on to future generations.

Key initiatives include the development of the Queen Mother Library, a museum and research center dedicated to preserving Khmer Rouge-era archives and serving as an educational hub for atrocity prevention. Additionally, community projects, such as those along the Cambodian-Laotian border, aim to revitalize local areas and foster lasting peace. With collaboration extending to nations like Rwanda and Sudan, Cambodia is positioning itself as a leader in global atrocity prevention efforts.