It is assumed that at least 5 million Cambodians survived the Khmer Rouge Genocide that occurred between 1975 and 1979. Forty-seven years later, being essentially the genocide survivor generation, these Cambodians were the human engine for Cambodia’s rise from the ashes—- rebuilding the Nation from its lowest point to one where the country can participate as a rising developing power in the region and world today.
Cambodia is grateful to this generation-the “Greatest Generation-who rebuilt this Nation and enabled Cambodia’s future.
YOUK CHHANG
Director
Documentation Center of Cambodia
March 16, 2026
Photo: Villagers at Khmer Leu village, Takeo province, 1995.
