FIDH – International Federation for Human Rights
UN Human Rights Council – 57th Session
Item 6: Oral Statement for the adoption of Cambodia’s UPR
26 September 2024
Mr. President,
FIDH is disappointed but not surprised by the Cambodian government’s dismissal of the concerns expressed by UN member states over serious and ongoing human rights violations in the country. The government’s acceptance of 84% of the UPR recommendations gives a false impression of progress, because the lack of commitment to implementing them is evident. The reality is that the situation for civil society and the political opposition has worsened in recent months.
As we speak, Cambodia holds nearly 100 political prisoners, consequent of an epidemic of misused criminal charges such as “incitement”, “plotting”, and lèse-majesté for their peaceful advocacy.
In early July, 10 Mother Nature activists were sentenced to between six and eight years in prison. Five were violently arrested and detained across five different remote prisons.
Since July, at least 60 people have been detained for the peaceful and legitimate expression of views about a sub-regional trade agreement.
In August last month, Cambodia’s Supreme Court upheld an incitement conviction against a Vice- President of the opposition Candlelight Party.
Later last month, a deputy leader of the opposition Nation Power Party was sentenced to two and a half years in prison for a Facebook post that was critical of the government.
The list goes on.
We remain disturbed by the government’s false claim that Cambodia’s Criminal Code does not restrict freedom of expression and assembly. We are also troubled by the government’s refusal to accept all recommendations for the release of individuals who have been deprived of their liberty simply for exercising their rights.
Human rights defenders face increasing surveillance, threats, intimidation, harassment, physical attacks, arrest, and imprisonment. Even those who have fled Cambodia are not safe, because of the government’s determination to pursue and repress them beyond Cambodia’s borders.
We urge UN member states to press the Cambodian government to release all imprisoned political activists and human rights defenders, address long-standing human rights violations, end impunity for abuses, and initiate essential legal, institutional, and democratic reforms.
Thank you.