Embark on an eye-opening laos tour package and discover the COPE Visitor Centre, a poignant testament to the enduring legacy of unexploded ordnance (UXO) in Laos. This essential stop in Vientiane offers visitors a profound understanding of the devastating impact of UXO on the people and communities of Laos.
An Overview of COPE Visitor Centre
The COPE Visitor Centre is a museum and educational facility located in Vientiane, the capital city of Laos. COPE stands for Cooperative Orthotic and Prosthetic Enterprise, an organization dedicated to providing rehabilitation services to people affected by the legacy of unexploded ordnance (UXO) in Laos.
The visitor center offers insight into the impact of UXO on the people of Laos, particularly those living in rural areas where remnants of past conflicts continue to pose a threat. Through interactive exhibits, videos, and personal stories, visitors learn about the history of UXO in Laos, the efforts to clear these dangerous remnants, and the challenges faced by those affected.
Additionally, the COPE Visitor Centre showcases the work of COPE and its partners in providing prosthetic limbs, orthotic devices, and other rehabilitation services to UXO survivors and people with disabilities. It also highlights the importance of education, advocacy, and community support in addressing the long-term consequences of UXO contamination.
The History of COPE Visitor Centre
The organization behind the visitor center, Cooperative Orthotic and Prosthetic Enterprise (COPE), was founded in 1997 by an Australian physical therapist named Carol Pearce, along with the Cambodian School of Prosthetics and Orthotics.
COPE was established in response to the urgent need for rehabilitation services for people affected by UXO-related injuries and disabilities in Laos. During the Vietnam War and the Secret War in Laos (1964-1973), Laos became one of the most heavily bombed countries in history, with millions of tons of ordnance dropped by the United States. Many of these bombs failed to detonate upon impact and remained buried in the ground, posing a constant threat to the lives and livelihoods of the Lao people.
Recognizing the devastating impact of UXO on the population, COPE began providing orthotic and prosthetic devices to UXO survivors and people with disabilities in Laos. The organization also focused on raising awareness about the issue of UXO contamination and advocating for the clearance of affected areas.
In 2008, COPE opened the Visitor Centre in Vientiane as a way to further educate the public about the impact of UXO in Laos and showcase the work being done to support survivors and promote rehabilitation. The centre features interactive exhibits, multimedia presentations, and personal stories that highlight the experiences of UXO survivors and the efforts of COPE and its partners.
Today, the COPE Visitor Centre continues to serve as a vital resource for raising awareness about the issue of UXO in Laos and advocating for the rights of UXO survivors. It provides visitors with a deeper understanding of the challenges faced by the Lao people and the ongoing efforts to address the long-term consequences of UXO contamination. Through education, advocacy, and rehabilitation services, COPE remains committed to supporting the recovery and resilience of UXO survivors and promoting a safer and more inclusive future for Laos.
Learning the Role of COPE Visitor Centre
The COPE Visitor Centre serves several important functions aimed at addressing the impact of unexploded ordnance (UXO) on the country’s population:
Education:
The center educates visitors about the history and consequences of UXO contamination in Laos through interactive exhibits, multimedia presentations, and personal testimonies. Visitors learn about the extent of the problem, the risks posed by UXO, and the challenges faced by affected communities.
Awareness-raising:
COPE Visitor Centre raises awareness about UXO-related issues both locally and internationally. By sharing information and personal stories, the centre helps to foster understanding and empathy for UXO survivors and their families.
Advocacy:
The centre advocates for the rights of UXO survivors and promotes initiatives aimed at addressing the long-term consequences of UXO contamination. It works to raise awareness among policymakers and stakeholders about the need for continued support and resources for affected communities.
Rehabilitation Services:
In addition to its educational activities, the COPE Visitor Centre provides rehabilitation services to UXO survivors and people with disabilities. This includes the provision of orthotic and prosthetic devices, physical therapy, and vocational training to support individuals in regaining mobility and independence.
Capacity-building:
The center works to build the capacity of local healthcare providers and rehabilitation professionals through training programs and workshops. By equipping local staff with the skills and knowledge needed to provide quality care to UXO survivors, the center helps to strengthen the overall healthcare system in Laos.
COPE Visitor Centre Tour Guide
Opening hour
COPE Visitor Centre opens daily from 8:30 am to 16:00 pm
Entrance fee
Free
How to get to COPE Visitor Centre?
The COPE Visitor Centre is located near the city center of Vientiane. If you’re in the central area, you can reach the center easily by walking or using local transportation.
- By Tuk-tuk or Taxi:Tuk-tuks and taxis are readily available throughout Vientiane. You can hail one on the street or ask your accommodation to arrange a ride to the COPE Visitor Centre. Make sure to inform the driver that you’re going to the COPE Visitor Centre near the National Rehabilitation Center.
- By Bicycle:If you prefer a more leisurely and eco-friendly option, you can rent a bicycle from various shops in Vientiane and cycle to the COPE Visitor Centre. It’s a convenient way to explore the city while also getting to your destination.
- By Local Bus:You can also use the local bus system in Vientiane to reach the COPE Visitor Centre. Check with locals or at your accommodation for information on which bus routes pass by the centre and where to catch the bus.
- By Foot:Depending on where you’re staying in Vientiane, it might be possible to walk to the COPE Visitor Centre. The center is located within walking distance of many hotels and guesthouses in the city center.
In short, through interactive exhibits, informative displays, and firsthand accounts, the COPE Visitor Centre sheds light on the ongoing efforts to clear UXO and support those affected by its tragic consequences. Gain insight into the challenges faced by UXO survivors and learn about the vital work being done to promote education, rehabilitation, and advocacy.
