Day 26
Cambodia
UN Secretary-General António Guterres visited a museum which records the brutality of the Khmer-Rouge regime, paying tribute to both the victims and those who survived. He noted that museums like this help to ensure that history does not repeat itself. He also warned that when hatred is unchecked and allowed space, it will wreak havoc with humanity. Jesus also taught that hate is powerful, but forgiveness can bring healing while unforgiveness does not bring life. Pray for ongoing healing for the nation of Cambodia. Praise God for the forgiveness we experience as a result of Jesus Christ coming to seek and save the lost (The Bible, 2 Corinthians 2:10-11).
Cambodia is notorious for the Khmer Rouge and landmines. That was 40 years ago, though, and the nation has enjoyed relative peace since then. Even so, the news still reports on frequently hidden landmine explosions that leave people limbless. This year, the former head of state of the Khmer Rouge appeared before the Extraordinary Chambers in the Courts of Cambodia (ECCC) appealing his 2018 conviction for genocide. The outcome is not yet known. Cambodia is a poor nation, and corruption runs rampant. The sex industry thrives. One-third of Cambodians live on less than one dollar per day, yet it is still one of the region’s fastest-growing economies. Prime Minister Hun Sen has ruled the nation for 37 years, ruthlessly removing opposition. After 2018’s sham elections, the EU, USA, Australia, and Japan have all moved towards introducing sanctions of some kind. The small population of Christian Believers has also enjoyed relative peace, although mission work is scorned. Cambodia remains a non-militant Buddhist state.
