Cambodia's Angkor Wat Faces Controversy Over Evictions

Cambodia's Angkor Wat, recognized as the largest religious structure globally and a symbol of national pride, is at the center of a growing controversy. Revered by locals and featured prominently on the Cambodian flag, Angkor Wat was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1992. UNESCO emphasized the importance of the traditional communities surrounding the site, labeling it a "living" heritage. However, recent developments have raised concerns about the treatment of these communities. Local residents have accused the Cambodian government of orchestrating mass forced evictions, displacing thousands from their homes within the Angkor region. These allegations have sparked outrage among the affected communities, who argue that their historical ties to the land are being disregarded. In contrast, the government maintains that the relocations are voluntary, asserting that those displaced were living illegally within the Angkor complex. The government further claims that these actions are in line with UNESCO's recommendations, suggesting that the relocations are necessary for the preservation of the site. This assertion has been met with skepticism by local advocates, who argue that the evictions undermine the very essence of what makes Angkor Wat a "living" heritage site. In response to these tensions, the investigative program People & Power has traveled to Cambodia to delve deeper into the situation, aiming to uncover the truth behind the government's claims and the impact on the local communities. The outcome of this investigation could have significant implications for the future of Angkor Wat and its surrounding inhabitants.