“First They Killed My Father” author honoured with global peace award
PHNOM PENH: Loung Ung, a lifelong humanitarian peace activist and famous author, has shared her gratitude for the recognition her work has received from a global peace organisation.

On Wednesday (March 13), she took to social media to share her elation at being awarded the Humanitarian Affairs Asia Peace Award.

“It was truly an honour to address the 3rd Global Peace Summit in Bangkok and be awarded the humanitarian affairs award for Asia,” Ung wrote.

She explained how her interactions with the young, passionate leaders at the summit left her inspired and hopeful for a future where collective efforts could lead to sustainable change and a more peaceful world.

Ung, best known for her gripping memoir, “First They Killed My Father: A Daughter of Cambodia Remembers”, was celebrated not just for her literary prowess but for her indomitable spirit and commitment to peace-building and human rights.

Her journey from a child survivor of the Cambodian genocide to an international symbol of resilience and peace demonstrates the human spirit’s capacity to overcome adversity.

Her experiences during the harrowing years of the Khmer Rouge regime have shaped her into a vocal advocate for human rights, particularly through her work against landmines.

Ung's narrative, as detailed in her memoir, also serves as a poignant reminder of the atrocities of the Cambodian genocide, ensuring that the world never forgets the impacts of such cruelty.

The speech she delivered at the summit, which took place from Jan 10 to 12 in Bangkok, Thailand, not only highlighted her own journey but also served as a call to action for the next generation of leaders.

“Meeting the passionate and driven future leaders of tomorrow filled me with inspiration and hope for our shared future,” she said.

Despite the event occurring in January, videos and images of Ung receiving her award and delivering an impassioned speech were posted online just a few weeks ago. This surge of interest has brought renewed focus to Ung's remarkable story of survival, resilience, and advocacy for peace.

“The Humanitarian Affairs Asia Peace Award honours significant contributions to peace and humanitarian efforts, recognising individuals or organisations that promote peace, human rights, and alleviate suffering,” explained Humanitarian Affairs, the organisers of the Global Peace Summit.

This prestigious award celebrates impactful humanitarian work, encouraging further action and awareness within the Asian context.

The collaboration between Ung and Hollywood actress Angelina Jolie to bring “First They Killed My Father” to the silver screen further amplified her message, showcasing the healing power of storytelling in the journey towards peace. - The Phnom Penh Post/ANN
Cambodia,author,Luong Ung
PHNOM PENH: Loung Ung, a lifelong humanitarian peace activist and famous author, has shared her gratitude for the recognition her work has received from a global peace organisation.