After the closure of the US embassy, France was the only country to maintain a diplomatic presence in Cambodia.
The French embassy thus became the last accessible refuge for hundreds of people—French, Cambodian, and other nationals—who gathered there in the hope of leaving the country safely.
Although communications were banned by the Khmer Rouge, numerous telegrams were exchanged between Phnom Penh and Paris. They reveal the growing anxiety of Jean Dyrac, then the only person in charge of the embassy.
In these messages, Jean Dyrac reports on the massive arrival of foreigners on April 17, the forced entry of Cambodian political figures seeking diplomatic asylum—a request that would be denied—as well as the dire sanitary conditions and growing food shortages.
These are all deeply moving testimonies and documents of invaluable historical value.
The French embassy thus became the last accessible refuge for hundreds of people—French, Cambodian, and other nationals—who gathered there in the hope of leaving the country safely.
Although communications were banned by the Khmer Rouge, numerous telegrams were exchanged between Phnom Penh and Paris. They reveal the growing anxiety of Jean Dyrac, then the only person in charge of the embassy.
In these messages, Jean Dyrac reports on the massive arrival of foreigners on April 17, the forced entry of Cambodian political figures seeking diplomatic asylum—a request that would be denied—as well as the dire sanitary conditions and growing food shortages.
These are all deeply moving testimonies and documents of invaluable historical value.
Today, more than ever, it is essential to remember the tragic consequences of the war in Cambodia.
In the current context marked by tensions with Thailand, we must not allow our elders, survivors of the Khmer Rouge genocide, to relive the horrors of one of the darkest chapters in Cambodian history.
Similarly, it is our duty to protect our youth and not compromise their future. Let us pray together for the establishment of lasting peace and true understanding between nations.
In the current context marked by tensions with Thailand, we must not allow our elders, survivors of the Khmer Rouge genocide, to relive the horrors of one of the darkest chapters in Cambodian history.
Similarly, it is our duty to protect our youth and not compromise their future. Let us pray together for the establishment of lasting peace and true understanding between nations.
Free admission
Until September 2, 2025 At Institut Français du Cambodge
Until September 2, 2025 At Institut Français du Cambodge
