Norvang VUE

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Starting Point 

VUE, a Xiengkhouang citizen, has worked with UXO Lao as part of the clearance team for over 10 years. Through his extensive experience and skills gained in clearance operations, he currently serves as the Deputy Clearance Team Leader. UXO Lao is a national organisation in Lao PDR dedicated to removing and clearing unexploded ordnance (UXO). Its mission is to reduce accidents and casualties caused by UXO and to enhance land availability for agriculture and socioeconomic development. 

VUE shared that growing up in a UXO-affected area instilled a strong sense of responsibility to contribute to the community's recovery and development. He possesses the belief and vision to foster community safety and the desire to protect lives from the dangers of UXO. Also, he is driven by the opportunity to make a tangible difference through clearing UXO, raising awareness, and promoting sustainable development. Additionally, the humanitarian mission, career growth, and the chance to contribute to Lao PDR’ progress and peace further inspire his dedication to this vital work.

Peace Journey

VUE plays a crucial role in UXO clearance with UXO Lao. He contributes his operational expertise to locate and safely remove unexploded ordnance, thereby reducing the risks of UXO to communities. He collaborates effectively with team members, ensuring efficient and coordinated operations. Beyond fieldwork, VUE engages with local communities to raise awareness about UXO dangers and safety measures. His efforts help free land for agriculture and development, supporting local livelihoods. Committed to safety, he strictly adheres to protocols, minimising operational risks. Overall, VUE’s work not only showcases his technical skills but also his dedication to improving safety and fostering community development in Lao PDR, particularly in Xienkhounag Province, which is a priority area under the UXO Lao and Provincial plan. 

He highlighted that to reduce or prevent the risks associated with UXO, all sectors and stakeholders, including women and men, must take responsibility. This includes the government, which should facilitate and collaborate with various domestic and international partners. Additionally, disseminating knowledge and information about the harmful effects of UXO to the public must be prioritised, carried out regularly, and integrated into all work activities.

Success Stories

Vue indicated that clearing large areas of UXO-contaminated land has significantly improved safety and fostered development. The community can access safer agriculture, infrastructure, and daily living spaces. Therefore, collaborative efforts between the government, international partners, and local stakeholders have been essential in achieving these outcomes. Risk education programmes have also been instrumental in raising awareness and preventing accidents related to UXO. Key lessons include the importance of community involvement in reporting UXO findings and the need for continuous capacity-building for clearance teams. Addressing gender inclusion and integrating innovative technologies are critical areas for further improvement, ensuring long-term sustainability and a more significant impact. 

Regarding gender inclusion, according to VUE, women's participation in all tasks is crucial as it promotes gender representation, contributes to peacebuilding, and amplifies women's voices. The report and information on women's involvement in UXO work demonstrate their active engagement and success in various roles, including team leader, supporter, and overcoming the impact of UXO to ensure survival, among others. Additionally, Women have proven capable of overcoming obstacles and making meaningful contributions to all aspects of UXO operations. 

However, despite their achievements, women in UXO clearance still face unique challenges and limitations, such as societal gender norms and expectations that often prioritise domestic roles over professional opportunities. The physically demanding nature of UXO clearance work can also be a barrier, alongside safety concerns specific to fieldwork. Balancing family responsibilities with professional duties poses an additional challenge. Moreover, the lack of female role models and leaders in the sector can deter women from pursuing careers in UXO clearance, despite their potential to make significant contributions to this vital work.