Despite a change in government in August, Cambodia’s state of freedom of expression remains dim. The decline of media freedom and free speech in general was highlighted in the latest report of the Cambodian Center for Human Rights (CCHR).
Amid a visit by the Special Rapporteur to Cambodia, non-governmental organizations have asked the government to improve human rights conditions in the country, where freedom of expression and political rights continue to be undermined, along with the abuse of political opponents and the shutting down of independent media.
More than 20 civil society groups have asked the government to help end all forms of discrimination against women and children.
Human rights NGO Licadho claimed that six police officers arrested four people who were in their office in Banteay Meanchey province on Wednesday afternoon to seek legal counsel for their imprisoned relative, political activist Kong Saron. However, the police denied the arrest, stating that they were there to “invite” them to the station to “receive humanitarian assistance”, and that the individuals have since returned home.
A group of monks, members of civil society groups and youth had planned a walk as a peaceful demonstration that would take them on a 300-kilometer (185-mile) trip to Freedom Park in the capital by Sunday, Human Rights Day.But more than 20 police officers prevented the marchers from leaving the town, saying the march was illegal.
