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Through news, talk shows, and podcasts, we reach millions across platforms. We rely on donor support to sustain press freedom and public access to truth. The Cambodia Daily fights for press freedom in one of the world's most challenging media environments. We exist to hold power to account, amplify marginalized voices, and defend the public's right to know. Since 1993, we have been Cambodia's most

trusted independent news source, delivering fearless journalism that challenges authority and champions human rights. In a country where speaking truth to power carries real risks, we refuse to be silenced. Our founder, Bernard Krisher, was an American journalist and Holocaust survivor who understood that democracy dies in darkness. He established The Cambodia Daily following the Paris Peace Accords, determined to document Cambodia's journey from conflict towards hope. His vision was simple yet radical: that every Cambodian deserves access to truthful, independent journalism. In 2017, escalating government pressure forced us to abandon our Phnom Penh headquarters and relocate abroad, a painful reminder of how fragile press freedom remains across Southeast Asia. But exile has not dimmed our resolve. Operating from Washington DC with a network of brave contributors still working inside Cambodia, we continue to break stories that matter. Our 2.3 million monthly viewers and listeners, 90% of whom engage with our Khmer-language content, represent a community hungry for independent news. Through programs like Idea Talk, we create space for conversations the powerful would prefer to silence. We translate key investigations into English and Chinese because Cambodia's story deserves global attention. Corruption, environmental destruction, and human rights abuses transcend borders, and so must the journalism that exposes them. The Cambodia Daily survives on donations from readers who believe, as we do, that journalism is not a business but a public service. In an era of rising authoritarianism and shrinking civic space, independent media has never been more vital or more vulnerable. Support independent journalism. Defend democracy. The Cambodia Daily
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Observers Say New York Times Report Misrepresents Cambodia-Thailand Border ClashPublished on October 3, 2025Read more: h...
10/03/2025

Observers Say New York Times Report Misrepresents Cambodia-Thailand Border Clash

Published on October 3, 2025
Read more: https://english.cambodiadaily.com/2025/10/03/observers-say-new-york-times-report-misrepresents-cambodia-thailand-border-clash/

Political geography observers have criticised a recent New York Times report suggesting that Cambodia initiated a five-day conflict with Thailand at the end of July 2025. They say the article deliberately misleads public perception and is being used by Thailand to frame the narrative.

Seng Vannly, a regional political analyst based in the Asia-Pacific, wrote on Facebook that the report appears to have been influenced or commissioned by Thai sources to accuse Cambodia while concealing Thailand’s military actions. During the five-day clash, Thailand deployed US-supplied F-16 fighter jets and Swedish Gripen aircraft over Cambodian territory.

Seng Vannly added that the New York Times article, relying on Thai official reports, heavily accused Cambodia of using heavy weaponry against civilian locations, including hospitals, residential areas, schools, and fuel stations.

The analyst questioned why Thailand, if it was confident that Cambodia was the aggressor, did not seek intervention from existing international mechanisms, such as the International Court of Justice, or allow a third party to mediate. He noted that Thailand has repeatedly delayed the establishment of a proper ASEAN observer mission.

According to Seng Vannly, Thailand’s agreements with Cambodia, which allowed ASEAN to mediate and implement ceasefire arrangements, were motivated solely by trade pressures from the United States, not by a genuine interest in balanced dialogue.

He said Thailand’s reluctance to accept impartial negotiations or third-party involvement has been a key factor in the ongoing difficulty of achieving peace in the Cambodia-Thailand border conflict.

The New York Times report, published on September 29, relied on Thai military sources regarding the shipment of Chinese weapons before the five-day clash. It accused Cambodia of targeting civilian sites with heavy arms, echoing Thailand’s narrative.

Former US radio reporter Men Kimseng added that the New York Times coverage appeared to be fed by Thai intelligence to influence a major international media outlet and shape the information environment around the border dispute.

He noted that even analysts quoted in the report tended to lean toward Thailand’s perspective, portraying Thailand as defending itself while framing Cambodia as the aggressor in the repeated use of heavy weaponry.

Observers Say Cambodia’s Cooperation with US on Arms Trade Shows Stronger DiplomacyPublished on October 3, 2025Read more...
10/03/2025

Observers Say Cambodia’s Cooperation with US on Arms Trade Shows Stronger Diplomacy

Published on October 3, 2025
Read more: https://english.cambodiadaily.com/2025/10/03/observers-say-cambodias-cooperation-with-us-on-arms-trade-shows-stronger-diplomacy/

Cambodian observers say recent cooperation with the United States on controlling the trade of weapons of mass destruction demonstrates Cambodia’s improved diplomatic approach, avoiding the alignment with any single power as seen in the past.

Man Nat, head of the Cambodian Monitoring Council, told The Cambodia Daily that Cambodia’s participation in the joint efforts to regulate arms trade represents a correct course for the country. It strengthens Cambodia’s ability to combat illegal arms trafficking and curb the production of weapons of mass destruction.

He added that this cooperation could also protect Cambodia from the future use of military weapons by neighboring countries, citing the example of Thailand, which deployed US-supplied F-16 fighter jets over Cambodian territory during a five-day conflict in late July.

Man Nat encouraged the Cambodian government to further develop its military, economic, and diplomatic ties with the United States. He highlighted the importance of enforcing legal measures against criminals linked to officials, saying that effective law enforcement is key to building trust with the US and strengthening Cambodia’s security.

On October 1, 2025, the US embassy in Cambodia posted on its page that both countries had agreed on cooperation to implement strategies controlling the trade of weapons of mass destruction. The embassy said the initiative also aims to support economic growth while enhancing border security and regulating the exchange of arms-related goods between Cambodia and the United States.

Meanwhile, on September 15, 2025, the Cambodian National Assembly approved a draft law ratifying additional agreements under the Southeast Asia Nuclear-Weapon-Free Zone treaty. The legislation is intended to promote regional and global peace and security, and help establish Southeast Asia as free from nuclear weapons and weapons of mass destruction.

10/02/2025

Nearly 100 families involved in the National Road 6A land project are demanding that Leng Navatra's real estate company deliver the homes and villas they purchased by the end of 2025. The families who bought land, houses, and villas from the project have been waiting for nearly five years since the purchase.

10/02/2025

After more than two months of border disputes with Thailand, the newly-appointed Thai Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul has stated that his government plans to hold a national referendum to decide whether to annul the 2000 and 2001 Memoranda of Understanding (MOU) between Cambodia and Thailand.

Customers of Leng Navatra's National Road 6A Land Project Demand House Construction After 5 Years of DelaysPublished on ...
10/02/2025

Customers of Leng Navatra's National Road 6A Land Project Demand House Construction After 5 Years of Delays

Published on October 2, 2025
Read more: https://english.cambodiadaily.com/2025/10/02/customers-of-leng-navatras-national-road-6a-land-project-demand-house-construction-after-5-years-of-delays/

Nearly 100 families involved in the National Road 6A land project are demanding that Leng Navatra's real estate company deliver the homes and villas they purchased by the end of 2025. The families who bought land, houses, and villas from the project have been waiting for nearly five years since the purchase.

On September 12, 72 of these customers signed a letter, which was recently revealed on September 29, requesting that Leng Navatra’s company honor the agreement and complete the construction of the houses they had already paid for. The properties, located in Block B, Villa 533, in the Anlong Sleng Village, Samboar Meas Commune, Muk Kampul District, Kandal Province, were purchased in July 2021.

The buyers claim that according to the sale agreement, the company had promised to complete construction within 18 months, with keys to be handed over by January 11, 2023. However, with the deadline passed, the company has not met its obligation, and customers have not received compensation. The agreement stipulated that if the company failed to deliver, it would compensate customers $100 per month until construction was completed.

According to sources, it has been over four years, and the homes have still not been delivered. Customers allege that despite multiple requests made directly to Leng Navatra, no resolution has been provided.

The customers are now demanding that the company either deliver the properties by the end of 2025 or refund the full amount they paid, including a 10% interest rate.
In addition, they are requesting that the company provide compensation for the significant delays in water and electricity service connections, which have yet to be fulfilled.

Furthermore, the customers have called on Leng Navatra to build a total of 90 houses and villas in Block B, as agreed, to ensure they have a place to live. If this is not possible, they demand a refund of all payments made, with the specified interest.
Since 2023, Leng Navatra's real estate company has been repeatedly criticized for failing to deliver land, houses, and villas as promised. Former employees have also revealed that the company has failed to pay sales commissions that were owed for successfully selling properties.

One Facebook user, Sophaktra Sophakleap, recalled that after four years of waiting, the company still has not paid her commission despite her efforts in selling properties for them. Another user, K*m Samphous, added that the company’s refusal to pay any commission or fulfill the sale obligations had left them feeling cheated and disillusioned.

The Cambodia Daily has not been able to reach Leng Navatra for further comment on this issue at the time of publication.

Thailand’s Move to Scrap 2000 and 2001 Border Agreements with Cambodia Faces Legal ChallengesPublished on October 2, 202...
10/02/2025

Thailand’s Move to Scrap 2000 and 2001 Border Agreements with Cambodia Faces Legal Challenges

Published on October 2, 2025
Read more: https://english.cambodiadaily.com/2025/10/02/thailands-move-to-scrap-2000-and-2001-border-agreements-with-cambodia-faces-legal-challenges/

After more than two months of border disputes with Thailand, the newly-appointed Thai Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul has stated that his government plans to hold a national referendum to decide whether to annul the 2000 and 2001 Memoranda of Understanding (MOU) between Cambodia and Thailand.

This announcement has raised concerns among international legal experts, who argue that such a move would violate international law and undermine Cambodia’s sovereignty, as the agreements are recognized under both national and international law.

The 2000 MOU, which deals with land borders, and the 2001 MOU, concerning maritime boundaries, were signed by both countries and are considered legally binding under international law. The agreements were designed to peacefully resolve border disputes and maintain the sovereignty of both nations.

Political expert In Sophal, writing on his Facebook account, explained that under the Vienna Convention of 1969, international agreements signed by two sovereign states are legally binding unless explicitly stated otherwise in the terms of the agreement. He added that while Thailand may unilaterally declare that it no longer recognizes these MOUs, international law requires both parties to uphold their obligations unless Cambodia chooses to withdraw from the agreement.

In Sophal further emphasized that Cambodia could potentially challenge Thailand’s withdrawal from the MOUs through diplomatic channels, such as the United Nations (UN) or ASEAN, or even through the International Court of Justice (ICJ).

Sok Sam Oeun, a legal expert, warned that while Thailand may attempt to disregard the agreements, it would face significant international consequences, including possible diplomatic and economic sanctions. He also pointed out that, as a powerful country, Thailand might resist international pressure, but it would still damage its international standing.

In Sophal concluded by stating that Cambodia could resort to international legal action if Thailand moves forward with its withdrawal from the MOUs, and warned that such a step could escalate tensions and even lead to military conflict.
The article also noted that while Thailand is a significant regional player, disregarding international agreements could isolate the country diplomatically, especially within ASEAN and the UN.

10/01/2025

Thai Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul has announced his intention to nullify the 2000 and 2001 border agreements with Cambodia. He said his government would consult the Thai public first, while analysts argue such unilateral action is impossible under international law.

10/01/2025

Cambodia has rejected accusations from Thailand that its troops opened fire first in recent border clashes, insisting instead that it was the victim of aggression.

10/01/2025

The United States has accused Cambodia’s government of not only failing to address human trafficking but also of being systemically complicit in enabling the crime.

Thai prime minister seeks to scrap 2000 and 2001 border agreements with Cambodia, but analysts say it is impossiblePubli...
10/01/2025

Thai prime minister seeks to scrap 2000 and 2001 border agreements with Cambodia, but analysts say it is impossible

Published on October 1, 2025
Read more: https://english.cambodiadaily.com/2025/10/01/thai-prime-minister-seeks-to-scrap-2000-and-2001-border-agreements-with-cambodia-but-analysts-say-it-is-impossible/

Thai Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul has announced his intention to nullify the 2000 and 2001 border agreements with Cambodia. He said his government would consult the Thai public first, while analysts argue such unilateral action is impossible under international law.

The Nation newspaper quoted Anutin on September 30 as saying his administration plans to hold a referendum on whether to scrap the two memoranda of understanding with Cambodia: the 2000 MOU on land demarcation and the 2001 MOU on overlapping maritime areas.

Political science expert In Sophal wrote on his Facebook account on September 29 that under the 1969 Vienna Convention on the Law of Treaties, once two sovereign states sign and recognize an agreement, it remains valid unless it includes a termination clause. Neither the 2000 nor the 2001 MOUs contain such provisions.

He noted that while Thailand may declare unilaterally that it no longer recognizes the agreements, it would remain legally bound if Cambodia insisted on their continuation. In Sophal added that Cambodia could file a diplomatic protest with the United Nations or ASEAN, or even take the issue to the International Court of Justice.

The analyst warned that a unilateral withdrawal would damage Thailand’s credibility and international standing while straining bilateral ties further.

Opposition politicians in Cambodia have also repeatedly demanded that Prime Minister Hun Manet cancel the agreements, claiming they caused Cambodia to lose land and maritime territory to Thailand.

In Sophal countered that Cambodia cannot cancel the 2000 MOU, as it anchors Thailand to the 1904 and 1907 Franco-Siam treaties and obliges Bangkok to respect maps produced by the joint border commission in 1908. He argued that the agreement safeguards Cambodian sovereignty, particularly around the Preah Vihear temple.

He added that scrapping the 2000 MOU would be akin to voiding the Franco-Siam treaties themselves, leaving Cambodia without a legal basis for border negotiations. According to Sophal, Thailand’s intention to scrap the MOU stems from its reluctance to acknowledge the 1907 treaty, which it claims was made with France, not Cambodia.

If the MOU were annulled, he warned, Thailand could attempt to enforce its own unilateral maps and lay claim to Preah Vihear and other disputed areas along the border.

Cambodia rejects Thai accusations over border clashesPublished on October 1, 2025Read more: https://english.cambodiadail...
10/01/2025

Cambodia rejects Thai accusations over border clashes

Published on October 1, 2025
Read more: https://english.cambodiadaily.com/2025/10/01/cambodia-rejects-thai-accusations-over-border-clashes/

Cambodia has rejected accusations from Thailand that its troops opened fire first in recent border clashes, insisting instead that it was the victim of aggression.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs said in a statement on Tuesday that Cambodian forces did not retaliate and remained committed to peace, despite being attacked. The ministry called on ASEAN, the United Nations, and the wider international community to help ease tensions and restore confidence between the two neighbors.
Phnom Penh expressed concern over the continuing standoff along the border, urging Thailand to respect the ceasefire and pursue dialogue in line with international law.

The dispute escalated after Thai Foreign Minister Sihasak Phuangketkeow told the UN General Assembly on September 28 that Cambodia was “playing the victim” while Thai civilians and soldiers suffered from landmines and rocket attacks.

Cambodian Foreign Minister Prak Sokhonn countered that his country’s suffering was due to border violations by Thailand, which he said had repeatedly undermined the ceasefire and Cambodia’s sovereignty.

The Ministry of Interior also challenged Bangkok’s claim to be the victim, pointing to the deaths of Cambodian soldiers and Thailand’s unilateral border closures and military actions. Officials noted that Thailand had resisted third-party mediation and questioned why Bangkok feared taking the case to the International Court of Justice if its claims were genuine.

US warns Cambodia of systemic complicity in human traffickingPublished on October 1, 2025Read more: https://english.camb...
10/01/2025

US warns Cambodia of systemic complicity in human trafficking

Published on October 1, 2025
Read more: https://english.cambodiadaily.com/2025/10/01/us-warns-cambodia-of-systemic-complicity-in-human-trafficking/

The United States has accused Cambodia’s government of not only failing to address human trafficking but also of being systemically complicit in enabling the crime.
In its 2025 Trafficking in Persons report released on September 29, the US State Department placed Cambodia on the Tier 3 Watch List. The report said senior officials had benefited financially from trafficking operations, while others had intimidated victims, witnesses, and civil society groups working to combat online fraud linked to trafficking.

The report also alleged that Cambodian authorities blocked investigations into scam compounds, amounting to protection for operators. Washington highlighted that Phnom Penh had failed to prosecute a ruling party senator and senior government adviser sanctioned by the US, despite evidence of his ownership of multiple businesses tied to online fraud.

The State Department noted Cambodia has not reported any convictions since 2022, underscoring its failure to meet minimum standards to eliminate trafficking.
Cambodia’s own National Committee for Counter Trafficking admitted earlier this year that trafficking had risen in 2024. It said authorities targeted 72 locations across 18 provinces, detaining more than 3,000 suspects of 19 different nationalities by August 21, 2025.

Prime Minister Hun Manet acknowledged in December 2024 that Cambodia was being used as a base for human trafficking, but he pledged zero tolerance for all forms of cross-border crime.

Still, the US Treasury last year froze the assets of ruling party senator Ly Yong Phat and several of his businesses under sanctions for alleged trafficking, money laundering, forced labor, and online fraud.

The Cambodia Daily was unable to reach Chou Bun Eng, the permanent vice chair of the national anti-trafficking committee, for comment by the time of broadcast.

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