PRESS RELEASE : UN Human Rights Council 57 – UK statement on human rights in Cambodia [October 2024]

The press release issued by the Foreign Office on 7 October 2024.

UK statement for the Interactive Dialogue with the Special Rapporteur on Cambodia. Delivered by the UK’s Human Rights Ambassador, Eleanor Sanders.

Thank you, Mr. President. And thank you Special Rapporteur for your latest report and update on the human rights situation in Cambodia.

The UK recognises the positives steps that Cambodia has taken to expand healthcare and social protection, and we commend its commitment to climate change, education, and poverty reduction. The UK remains committed to supporting Cambodia’s vision of achieving an upper-middle income status by 2030.

However, the UK shares the Special Rapporteur’s concerns regarding the use of the judiciary to silence political and human rights actors as well as journalists. We are also concerned about the lasting impacts resulting from the online scamming industry in the country.

In this light, we encourage the Cambodian government to engage in inclusive dialogue with all actors, especially Civil Society Organisations, in its legislative and policy-making processes ahead of the 2027 and 2028 elections. We believe that a flourishing free press and freedom of speech are essential if Cambodia is to achieve its vision.

Special Rapporteur,

What further steps should the Cambodian government take to better promote and protect freedom of expression, including press freedom?

Thank you.