Exhibition Rooms

Overview

The Exhibition Rooms at the COPE Visitor Centre in Vientiane, Laos, offer a profoundly moving and educational journey into a lesser-known chapter of modern history. This facility serves as a poignant reminder of the devastating impact of unexploded ordnance (UXO) that continues to plague Laos, the most heavily bombed country per capita in history. Entry to the Visitor Centre is free, yet it provides invaluable insights into the ongoing humanitarian crisis and the remarkable rehabilitation efforts by the Cooperative Orthotic and Prosthetic Enterprise (COPE). As you explore, you'll encounter interactive displays, powerful video testimonies, and artifacts that collectively tell a story of resilience, suffering, and hope.

Far from a typical museum, the Exhibition Rooms immerse visitors in the realities faced by countless Lao people who have been affected by these hidden dangers. It stands as a testament to the human spirit's ability to 'move on', which is COPE's guiding motto, despite profound challenges. The center is a must-visit for any traveler seeking a deeper understanding of Laos beyond its beautiful temples and serene landscapes.

History & Cultural Background

Laos endured an astonishing scale of bombing during the Vietnam War, particularly between 1964 and 1973, in what is often referred to as the 'Secret War'. During this period, the United States dropped over two million tons of ordnance on Laos, including an estimated 270 million cluster bomblets. Crucially, up to 30 percent of these bomblets failed to detonate upon impact, leaving behind a deadly legacy of unexploded ordnance that continues to injure and kill Laotian citizens decades later.

To address this urgent humanitarian crisis, the Cooperative Orthotic and Prosthetic Enterprise (COPE) was established in 1996 through a partnership between the Lao Ministry of Health and various non-governmental organizations. COPE's primary mission is to provide free orthotic and prosthetic devices, as well as rehabilitation services, to survivors of UXO accidents and others with mobility-related disabilities. The COPE Visitor Centre itself opened in 2008 with the goal of raising international awareness about the ongoing UXO problem and the critical support COPE provides.

What Makes It Special

The uniqueness of the COPE Visitor Centre's Exhibition Rooms lies in their ability to combine factual historical context with deeply personal narratives. Instead of merely presenting statistics, the exhibits feature interactive elements that demonstrate the everyday impact of UXO on Laotian life. Visitors can watch compelling video testimonies from survivors, see actual objects recovered from bombed sites, and learn about the intricate and dangerous processes of mine clearance.

A particularly striking feature is the 'Cave Cinema', designed to resemble the underground bunkers used during the war, where powerful documentaries are screened, detailing the history of UXO and COPE's vital work. The center goes beyond education, showcasing COPE's role as the main provider of artificial limbs and mobility aids in Laos, highlighting the journey of individuals regaining their independence. This blend of historical education, humanitarian advocacy, and personal storytelling creates an incredibly impactful and unforgettable experience.

Stories, Fun Facts & Local Details

The Exhibition Rooms are filled with symbolic and powerful details that resonate deeply. One of the most visually arresting displays features dozens of artificial legs hanging from the ceiling, symbolizing the immense need for prosthetics and the lives transformed by COPE's services. Even the 'COPE' sign at the entrance is crafted from used prosthetic feet, a creative and thought-provoking detail.

Outside the center, a powerful sculpture depicts a mother and child, forged from discarded bomb materials, underscoring the enduring presence and repurposing of war remnants in everyday life. Inside, a full-scale replica of a rural Laotian stilt house illustrates how communities, sometimes unknowingly, utilize military debris for household items, revealing the dangerous proximity of their lives to unexploded ordnance. Beyond the exhibits, every purchase made at the center's gift shop or the Karma Cafe directly supports COPE's rehabilitation programs, turning visitors' contributions into tangible assistance for survivors. The center has also drawn international attention, with notable visitors such as former US President Barack Obama, who visited in 2016, acknowledging America's partnership in addressing the UXO legacy.

Visitor Perspective

A visit to the COPE Exhibition Rooms is often described by travelers as an eye-opening, sobering, and profoundly emotional experience. Many leave with a deeper understanding of Laos's tragic past and the humanitarian issues that persist today. While the subject matter is heavy, the presentation is designed to inform and inspire rather than simply distress. It is recommended to allocate at least one to two hours to fully absorb the exhibits and watch the documentary films, allowing sufficient time for reflection. Travelers often emphasize that it is not merely a tourist attraction but a crucial educational opportunity that fosters empathy and highlights the resilience of the Lao people. Visitors are encouraged to consider making a donation, as the center relies on public support to continue its vital work. Dressing modestly is advised, in respectful acknowledgement of the center's serious mission.