Land Mines in Cambodia - Social Consequences

Social Consequences

The social consequences of the landmines in Cambodia are extremely serious. A high percentage of the population has been struck down by this mines and this affects entire families. "ICRC statistics claim that only 25% of mine victims arrive at hospital within 6 hours of being injured with 15% having to travel for more than 3 days before they reach a hospital." The state of vulnerability that these incidents cause in the population is very high. For a family with a very low income, to have a member lose a limb and no access to good health care, and no governmental aid makes the dangers of land mines a much heavier burden on the Cambodian community. "Landmines, just by their sheer number alone in a particular area, can influence the population's behaviour. This in turn may result in an overall deterioration of public health and other aspects of social well­being. Farmers with mines, or even only "perceive" the presence of landmines on their land will not be able to cultivate the land. This will lead to food scarcity and eventually even malnutrition." "In Cambodia, 87% of surviving landmine victims are males over 15 years old, with a mean age of 28 years. In Afghanistan, 73% are males between ages 16 to 50, and 20% of the victims are male children." The stresses that this issue puts on the society and community are very high. Such high numbers of victims of working age represent a considerable burden on families' capacity for raising income and educating their children. The social consequences of land mines at the high rate that Cambodia experiences poses a considerable social and economic problem. It also shows the vulnerability of the health system and the lack of a support strategy.