A trip to Vientiane, Laos’s capital city, offers a laid-back atmosphere and a rich blend of history and culture. However, a visit to the Cooperative Orthotic and Prosthetic Enterprise (COPE) Visitor Centre reveals a sobering and crucial aspect of the country’s past and present. This unique museum sheds light on the devastating legacy of the “Secret War” and the ongoing challenges posed by unexploded ordnance (UXO). Furthermore, it highlights the remarkable resilience of the Lao people and the life-changing work of the COPE organization.
Content
- What is the COPE Visitor Centre?
- The History of UXO in Laos
- The Ongoing Impact and COPE’s Mission
- Planning Your Visit to COPE
What is the COPE Visitor Centre?
The COPE Visitor Centre is a non-profit museum located in Vientiane, Laos. It serves as an educational hub, raising awareness about the ongoing issue of unexploded ordnance (UXO) and the work of COPE, a local organization providing prosthetic and rehabilitation services. Many travelers consider it an essential and moving stop, as it provides a deeper understanding of the challenges faced by the Lao people. The center features informative exhibits, personal stories, and powerful documentaries. Visitors can also see the prosthetics workshop, observing firsthand how the organization helps individuals regain their mobility and dignity.
The History of UXO in Laos
Laos holds the tragic distinction of being the most heavily bombed country in history on a per capita basis. From 1964 to 1973, during the Vietnam War, the United States conducted over 580,000 bombing missions over Laos. The bombing campaign aimed to disrupt supply lines along the Ho Chi Minh Trail. Tragically, a staggering number of cluster bombs were deployed, with an estimated 270 million submunitions dropped on the country. A significant portion, around 30 percent, failed to detonate upon impact. As a result, approximately 80 million “bombies” remain scattered throughout the countryside, posing a deadly threat to this day.
The Ongoing Impact and COPE’s Mission
The devastating effects of UXO continue to be felt today. Since the end of the war, more than 20,000 people have been killed or injured by these hidden explosives. Many of the victims are children who mistake the small, round devices for toys. Farmers also face constant risk when cultivating their land. The presence of UXO contaminates roughly 30 percent of the country, leaving large areas of arable land unusable. In this context, COPE plays a vital role. Since its creation in 1996, the organization has provided crucial support to thousands of people with mobility-related disabilities, including UXO survivors. Its mission is to help people “move on” by offering prosthetic devices, orthotic devices, and physical therapy services free of charge. Donations and purchases from the on-site gift shop and cafe directly fund this life-saving work.
Planning Your Visit to COPE
The COPE Visitor Centre is easy to access and provides an impactful experience. Admission to the center is free, although donations are highly encouraged to support the organization’s work. It is open every day, and a visit typically requires 1-2 hours to fully appreciate the exhibits and documentaries. The center is located on Khouvieng Road in Vientiane, situated on the grounds of the Centre for Medical Rehabilitation. You will find a café and a gift shop on the premises, which provide excellent opportunities to contribute to the cause.