Stephanie Fung Humanities and Social Science
Trials & Collective Memory in Post-Conflict Cambodia
The Extraordinary Chambers in the Courts of Cambodia (ECCC) was established in 2003 with the goal of trying those responsible for the horrors inflicted upon Cambodia under the Khmer Rouge between 1975-1979. Two of the original four Accused in Case 002 are currently being tried at this Khmer Rouge Tribunal, and as part of my research, I will be monitoring these trials at the ECCC on the outskirts of Phnom Penh. By observing these trials and interviewing experts on the ECCC and the Democratic Kampuchea period, I intend to examine the influence of the tribunal and other sites of historical importance, such as the Killing Fields and the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum, on the development of a national collective memory of the Khmer Rouge era. Public consciousness is undoubtedly being molded by these trials and memorials, and my project will provide insight into how this history is being developed and why it is so important.
Message To Sponsor
Having worked as an undergraduate research apprentice at the UC Berkeley War Crimes Studies Center for almost three years, I was thrilled to learn that I'd be able to further pursue my interest in the Khmer Rouge trials. I am incredibly grateful for this chance to not only travel to Cambodia and meet with experts, but to also delve into the world of independent research. Therefore, I'd like to thank my sponsors, my mentor Professor Cohen, and SURF for this amazing opportunity.