COPE Laos: Where History Meets Healing

A visit to the COPE Visitor Centre in Vientiane is both eye-opening and deeply moving. It sheds light on Laos’ tragic past as the most heavily bombed country per capita in history, a legacy of the Vietnam War era when millions of cluster bombs were dropped across its landscape.

I can’t forget these words: “The USA dropped more than 2 million tons of bombs, which is about a bomb every 8 minutes, 24 hours a day, for 9 years.”

The centre provides powerful exhibits, survivor stories, and interactive displays that highlight the ongoing impact of unexploded ordnance (UXO) on communities today. Beyond the history, COPE showcases the inspiring work being done to support survivors through rehabilitation and prosthetics. It’s a sobering but essential stop that adds depth and understanding to any trip through Laos.

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Post by Travelling Tiger | Jul 26, 2025