New book highlights stories of Lao women clearing explosive remnants of war
A new book published by the Mines Advisory Group (MAG), Stories of Brave Lao Women in a Forgotten War, documents a powerful collection of real-life stories that honour the courage and dedication of Lao women working on the frontlines of unexploded ordnance (UXO) clearance in Lao PDR. Written by Lao author Kabkeo Thammavong, the book highlights the lived experiences of women making land safe for communities across Lao PDR.
Laos continues to be affected by the legacy of past wars, with unexploded bombs making everyday life unsafe and limiting access to land, education, and development. This book shares the stories of eight women working with the Mines Advisory Group (MAG) who are involved in UXO clearance to make land safe. Through their experiences, the book highlights the challenges and impact of their work and the hope it brings to communities rebuilding their lives.
The book features the stories of Manixia Thor, Bounma Phengyaseng, Khamlar Seebounheung, Boualapha Inthavongsa, Anoudsala Phichit, Maxmani Mangnormek, Xonlisa Bouyhuksylavong, Fongsamout Saymala, capturing their commitment and the powerful impact of women making land and lives safer.
“UXO clearance is not only about removing explosives; it is about making land safe again for families and future generations,” said Eli Mechanic, MAG Country Director. “The women featured in this book show that courage and professionalism are defined by commitment, not by gender.”
UXO clearance is dangerous work that requires extensive training, focus, and strict safety procedures. The book highlights how women are increasingly taking on roles that were once mainly held by men.
“This book records the strength and determination of Lao women who chose to face danger to protect others,” said Kabkeo Thammavong, author of the book. “Their quiet courage has not only cleared explosives but also helped communities feel safer. I hope this book serves as a tribute to their dedication.”
Manixia Thor, National Technical Field Manager
Through this publication, MAG aims to raise awareness of the ongoing UXO problem in Laos, highlight the critical role of women in technical and humanitarian work, and support fundraising for MAG’s clearance operations.
“True success isn’t measured by how many bombs we remove, but by the lives we protect and the safety we help restore. You see it in farmers who can finally work their land without fear, in children who can play freely, and in communities that can live again on land once destroyed by war. Every cleared area isn’t just land—it’s new hope” – said Manixia Thor.
Read their full stories in Stories of Lao Brave Women in a Forgotten War.
The Lao-language edition of Stories of Brave Lao Women in a Forgotten War will be published on 10 March 2026. An English-language edition is planned to follow later in the year, subject to available funding.
All proceeds from the book will support MAG’s UXO clearance work in Laos.
The Lao-language version of the book is available at local bookstores, including DBook Publishing, Sujipuli bookstore, at the Vientiane Book Festival (VI) at the National University of Laos from 10-15 March 2026, and through the MAG Visitor Centers and MAG online platforms.
About MAG in Laos
The Mines Advisory Group (MAG) is a global humanitarian and advocacy organization that finds, removes and destroys landmines, cluster munitions and unexploded bombs from places affected by conflict. MAG has been working in Lao PDR since 1994 clearing unexploded bombs and providing explosive ordnance risk education, helping families safely farm, build, and live without fear.
To learn more about the history of unexploded ordnance in Laos and how MAG clears them, visit MAG’s Visitor Centres in Xieng Khouang or Khammouane.
