Universal Periodic Review 32: Cambodia
The UK urged Cambodia to reverse restrictions on freedom of expression, remove the ban on 118 former CNRP members from engaging in political activities and drop charges against Kem Sokha.
Thank you Mr Vice President,
The UK welcomes the delegation of Cambodia and appreciates its participation in the UPR process.
The UK is concerned by the human rights situation in Cambodia, particularly: the shrinking of democratic space through the dissolution of the CNRP; the imprisonment of Kem Sokha; and the national election in July 2018, which lacked legitimacy.
We note that Cambodia has amended Article 45 of the Law of Political Parties and removed the required three days’ notification of NGOs’ activities to the local authority. However, we urge that all charges against Kem Sokha be dropped.
We have three recommendations:
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Reverse the forced closure of media outlets, repeal provisions of the Criminal Code that criminalise defamation and restrict freedom of expression and assembly, and remove, without conditions, the ban on the 118 former CNRP members from engaging in political activities.
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Improve and expand identification and protection procedures for victims of human trafficking, forced labour and bonded labour, and ensure adequate access to support services and sheltered accommodation.
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Implement a coherent resettlement policy and simplified process for granting communal land titles, consulting communities, civil society and indigenous groups.
The UK recognises Cambodia’s commitment to ending human trafficking and bonded labour. We encourage Cambodia to accept a visit from the UN Special Rapporteur on Contemporary Forms of Slavery.
Thank you Mr Vice President.