Phnom Penh: Cambodia and the Extraordinary Chambers in the Courts of Cambodia (ECCC), through the support from development partners, have firmed up the draft concept note for the establishment of an institution to preserve the legacy of the historical Khmer Rouge trials.

According to Agence Kampuchea Presse, the move has been agreed upon in a meeting of the working group with the United Nations and other development partners on the implementation of the ECCC’s residual functions on Mar. 12 at the Office of the Council of Ministers. H.E. Vongsey Vissoth, Permanent Deputy Prime Minister and Minister in Charge of the Office of the Council of Ministers, who also chairs the working group, led the discussion meeting.

Based on the draft concept note, the institution will include archives management and the establishment of a Khmer Rouge trials museum, as well as research promotion and knowledge sharing of the valuable experiences and achievements from 16 years (2006-2022) of hard work. It will also establish partnerships with relevant national and international institutions to promote peace education, genocide prevention, and transitional justice based on the lessons learned.

H.E. Vongsey Vissoth emphasized that the concept note guides the Khmer Rouge trial institution in highlighting Cambodia’s ownership of the achievements. With its openness for research and education both nationally and internationally, it contributes to promoting the culture of peace, development, and global justice-which is the core value of the Royal Government of Cambodia, he added.