My Story Premieres at Cambodia International Film Festival, Giving Voice to Khmer Rouge Survivors
The Extraordinary Chambers in the Courts of Cambodia (ECCC) premiered My Story, a poignant six-episode documentary series, at the 14th Cambodia International Film Festival (CIFF) on Saturday at Chaktomuk Conference Hall. Co-produced with Educational Broadcasting Cambodia (EBC), the series serves as a platform for nine civil parties to share their deeply personal experiences during the Khmer Rouge regime and their involvement in testifying at the ECCC.
The screening was attended by over 600 guests, including government officials, diplomats, representatives from NGOs, students, and members of the public, reflecting a strong collective interest in preserving Cambodia’s history.
Preserving Testimonies for Future Generations
During his opening remarks, Kranh Tony, Acting Director of the ECCC, highlighted the importance of documenting these stories.
“These individuals are living witnesses to Cambodia’s past. Through their testimonies, this history will be passed down to future generations,” he said, emphasizing that My Story sheds light on the painful memories of survivors, the decades-long wait for justice, and Cambodia’s ongoing journey in confronting its past.
For many survivors, participating in the documentary was an emotional yet necessary process. Yim Sovann, one of the featured civil parties, described the experience as both challenging and empowering.
“Sharing my story has been difficult, but it’s necessary. We do this so that future generations understand the atrocities we endured and work toward peace and unity,” she shared.
Connecting with Cambodia’s Youth
The documentary was particularly impactful for younger audiences. Khem Thavika, a student at the Royal University of Laws and Economics, reflected on the importance of learning from history.
“Watching this film deepened my understanding of my country’s history. Remembering the past helps us build a better future,” he said, echoing a sentiment often expressed by Cambodian youth eager to engage with their national history.
For many young Cambodians, exposure to first-hand survivor testimonies is crucial in understanding the realities of the Khmer Rouge era.
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While history books and school curricula provide the facts, films like My Story bring history to life through deeply personal narratives.
A Platform for Reflection and Dialogue
Following the screening, a Q&A session provided attendees with the opportunity to hear directly from survivor-participants who had testified in the Khmer Rouge trials. These discussions served as a poignant reminder of the personal toll of the regime and the resilience of those who endured it.
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Attendees also engaged in the Peacxel Project, an artistic initiative designed to foster reflection and dialogue on Cambodia’s path forward. The project encouraged participants to envision a future built on justice, peace, and collective memory.With My Story, the ECCC continues its mission to ensure that the voices of the past remain at the forefront of Cambodia’s national consciousness, fostering awareness and reconciliation for generations to come.
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Author: Tom Starkey
Tom Starkey is an International Development graduate from Sussex University with 12-years of experience across 4 continents, Tom's goal is that he wants to showcase his love for Cambodia, where he lives, works and now happily calls home.
