PRESS RELEASE : FCDO statement on Cambodian elections [July 2023]

The press release issued by the Foreign Office on 24 July 2023.

The FCDO has issued a statement following elections in Cambodia.

An FCDO spokesperson said:

The UK is a long-term partner in Cambodia’s prosperity and stability, and believes progress in these areas is best sustained through a democratic political culture that supports open discussion of diverse perspectives.

Democratic elections depend on credible, open, and fair competition. We regret that these elections were preceded by a narrowing of the political space, including the disqualification of the main opposition Candlelight Party earlier this year, resulting in an election that was neither free nor fair. The UK views this as a missed opportunity to strengthen Cambodia’s democracy.

The UK remains committed to supporting efforts to enhance democratic processes and civic space in Cambodia, and to supporting the people of Cambodia.