In the framework of the inauguration of the new office of the Khmer Kampuchea-Krom Federation (KKF) in Washington, D.C., the Secretary General of the Unrepresented Nations and Peoples Organization (UNPO), Mercè Monje Cano, delivered a powerful speech to Khmer-Krom leaders, monks, allies, and advocates, highlighting the Khmer-Krom as a courageous people whose peaceful resistance and commitment to preserving their identity through non-violence represent the global change the world urgently needs.
Since joining UNPO in 2001, the Khmer-Krom have been part of our international solidarity platform of resilient communities and peoples striving for recognition, justice, and self-determination. For the UNPO, the inauguration of the Khmer Kampuchea-Krom Federation’s office in Washington, D.C. represents not only a political milestone but also a powerful testament to the strength of a community that has faced “repression, erasure, and systematic discrimination” with “peaceful resistance, cultural pride, and unwavering determination.”
“This weekend is more than a celebration,” stated Secretary General Mercè Monje Cano. “It is a powerful reminder of what a community can achieve when it refuses to be erased. You did not wait for institutions to act—you moved forward, guided by belief, unity, and an unshakable commitment to your people.”
The Secretary General emphasized that this new office will serve as a home for Khmer-Krom identity, a beacon for other unrepresented but resilient communities, and a message to the international community that the Khmer-Krom will not be silenced.
As the world faces growing instability, democratic decline, and rising authoritarianism, the Khmer-Krom’s nonviolent defense of dignity, tradition, and freedom offers a model of resistance, and a roadmap toward peace.
The UNPO joins this call and amplifies the message of unity and determination voiced by its Secretary General during the inauguration of the new KKF office in Washington, D.C. This event marked a significant milestone in the Khmer-Krom’s peaceful pursuit of international recognition.
“You are not waiting for history to catch up. You are writing it.” further reaffirmed the Secretary General.
The Secretary General emphasized that the KKF office is not just a physical space, but a spiritual and political home, a lighthouse for Khmer-Krom voices to be heard and recognized.
In the face of shrinking civic space and rising authoritarianism, the Khmer-Krom’s peaceful resistance and continued cultural preservation efforts offer a model of dignity and hope. The Secretary General concluded with a clear message:
“Every act of resistance—every word, every gathering, every effort to preserve your identity—is a light in the darkness. And you are not alone. We walk beside you—in Washington, in Brussels, in Geneva, and wherever justice calls.”
The UNPO urges the international community, human rights organizations, and governments to press Vietnam to end its repression of the Khmer-Krom and respect their rights under international law. We stand firm in our commitment to justice, equality, and self-determination for the Khmer-Krom and all unrepresented peoples.
