American Students Visit the ECCC

Posted Mon, 07/20/2015 - 22:26 by

On Wednesday 15th of July the court was visited by a group of twenty American high school students, from a summer-study programme. Their four-week study programme involved learning about the development, history, and culture, of Cambodia. Following their visit to the Killing Fields, the students visited The ECCC, where Press Officer, Neth Pheaktra, gave them an insight into the work of the court.

Three of the students were interviewed, following their talk with Pheaktra. They had some pre-knowledge of the tribunal, and asked about the longevity of the courts, and why they were so expensive. Following their lecture with Pheaktra, they understood better the reality of the court, and the complexity of the whole process; agreeing that the court was important in bringing justice for the victims. Sixteen year old Ara pointed out that it was important; to show that there were consequences to committing such atrocities. Lucy, also 16 years, argued that it would have been better and probably more beneficial twenty years ago, but they all agreed ’better late than never’’.

When they were asked if they were inspired by the courts for their future studies and career, they told they didn’t want to be lawyers, but, Lucy was persuaded by a future in foreign affairs.