An Empirical Analysis of Arrests and Executions at S-21 Security-Center During the Cambodian Genocide

Abstract

During the Cambodian genocide (1975–1979), approximately 200 security-centers were established by the Khmer Rouge. One of these institutions, designated by the code-name S-21, had the primary responsibility of punishing individuals deemed 'guilty' of crimes against the state. Much research has examined S-21, albeit from the standpoint of its symbolic importance or the conversion of the site into a museum of genocide; less research has empirically examined the arrest and execution records of S-21. Through a series of statistical analyses, in this research paper we highlight patterns of arrest and execution as a means of advancing our empirical understanding of the Cambodian genocide.