How did the cambodian genocide affect religion?

The Cambodian genocide, orchestrated by the Khmer Rouge from 1975 to 1979, had a profound impact on religion in the country. The regime sought to eliminate Buddhism, which was deeply rooted in Cambodian culture, viewing it as a threat to their communist ideology. Temples were destroyed, monks were killed or forced to disrobe, and religious practices were heavily suppressed. This led to a significant decline in the practice of Buddhism and disrupted the spiritual and cultural continuity of Cambodian society.