The European Union has again raised concerns about Cambodia's human rights and democracy record in its latest annual report for 2024. The report notes that there have been no positive changes since Mr. Hun Manet became Prime Minister, with civil and political rights continuing to be restricted.
This persistent lack of progress means that the 20% reduction in Cambodia's Everything But Arms (EBA) tariff preferences, imposed in 2020 due to "serious and systematic human rights violations," remains in effect. This decision has significant economic implications for the country, and civil society groups believe that addressing these human rights concerns could lead to an expansion of market access.
A Closer Look at the Concerns
The EU's report highlights ongoing harassment, intimidation, and violence against political opponents, journalists, human rights defenders, and land activists. Specific examples cited include:
The conviction of 10 environmental activists.
The arbitrary arrest of at least 94 critics of the Cambodia-Laos-Vietnam Development Triangle Cooperation.
The deportation of six opposition politicians from Thailand.
The indictment of 46 journalists.
The tragic shooting death of journalist Chhoeung Chhoeng in late 2024 while he was reporting on forestry crimes.
Khun Tharo, a program manager at the Center for Labor and Human Rights Alliance (CENTRAL), suggests that the EU could be open to restoring full EBA access if Cambodia demonstrates a "genuine willingness" to respect human rights, democracy, and the rule of law.
Calls for International Pressure
While the EU continues to use economic pressure and monitoring through its Human Rights and Democracy Action Plan for 2020-2027, some observers, such as Mr. Soeng Senkaruna from the Khmer Democracy Organization in Australia (KDO), argue that more is needed. He believes that Cambodia is governed by "family and nepotism" and that the United States, in accordance with the Paris Peace Agreements, should explore alternative forms of pressure beyond the EBA reduction to encourage meaningful change.
The EU's continued focus on these issues shows that Cambodia's human rights record remains a critical factor in its international relations and economic partnerships.
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