Speaking at the High‑Level Open Debate of the United Nations Security Council on May 26, H.E. Prak Sokhonn stressed that the principles enshrined in the UN Charter—including sovereign equality, territorial integrity, peaceful settlement of disputes, and non‑use of force—must remain the foundation of the international order.

Quick Facts

“The UN Charter must remain the cornerstone of international order and the indispensable framework for peaceful coexistence, cooperation, and conflict prevention,” he said.

Principles Under Strain

The Deputy Prime Minister warned that these principles are increasingly under strain due to armed conflicts, geopolitical tensions, and declining trust among nations.

Drawing from Cambodia’s own historical experience, H.E. Prak Sokhonn emphasized that disputes must be resolved exclusively through dialogue, diplomacy, mutual respect, and adherence to international law. He recalled the important role played by the United Nations Transitional Authority in Cambodia (UNTAC) in supporting Cambodia’s peace process, national reconciliation, and recovery in the early 1990s.

Cambodia-Thailand Border Situation

Regarding the Cambodia‑Thailand border situation, the Deputy Prime Minister expressed Cambodia’s appreciation to the international community for supporting the ceasefire and peaceful settlement efforts in accordance with international law and the principles of the UN Charter.

He stressed that borders and sovereignty “must never be altered by force or through fait accompli.”

While the ceasefire continues to hold, H.E. Prak Sokhonn expressed concern over the situation on the ground in areas “well inside Cambodian territory” that remain under illegal occupation. He called for the full, effective, and urgent implementation of all agreements reached between Cambodia and Thailand, particularly the Joint Statement of December 27, 2025.

Adherence to Agreements

The deputy prime minister underlined that respect for international law, existing treaties and agreements, dialogue, good faith, and mutual respect are essential to restoring trust, securing lasting peace, and enabling displaced populations to return home safely and with dignity.

He also called on the international community to continue supporting peaceful efforts aimed at preserving peace, stability, and prosperity in the region.

Violations by Thai Side

Cambodia has so far responsibly and faithfully adhered to and implemented the Joint Statement of the 3rd Special Meeting of the General Border Committee (GBC) held on December 27, 2025. However, the deputy prime minister noted that the Thai side has continued to violate Cambodia’s sovereignty through repeated actions, including

• Laying barbed wire
• Placing container units
• Constructing infrastructure
• Destroying houses in the illegally occupied areas

Context

The border dispute between Cambodia and Thailand centers on areas surrounding the Preah Vihear Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Tensions flared in early 2026, leading to a ceasefire in late December 2025. However, Cambodia maintains that Thai military personnel and infrastructure remain on Cambodian territory in violation of the joint statement.

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Speaking at a workshop on preventing human trafficking and cybercrime for journalists, Minister H.E. Neth Pheaktra said that law enforcement alone is no longer sufficient.

“Combating human trafficking and online scams is a collective task for the state, journalists, civil society, citizens, and the private sector,” he said. “Everyone must take part.”

The Convergence of Cybercrime and Human Trafficking

The ministry warned that technological advances have blurred the lines between traditional crimes. Human trafficking, irregular migration, and online scams have converged into sophisticated, interconnected operations run by transnational syndicates, which use deceptive social media ads to lure victims with false promises of high‑paying overseas jobs.

While eradicating these operations entirely is difficult, H.E. Neth Pheaktra said that public education — driven by investigative journalism and targeted reporting — can significantly reduce harm.

Five Public Safety Guidelines

To help citizens avoid falling victim, the Ministry issued five guidelines:

1. Verify job offers through legitimate, registered sources.
2. Never send personal documents or money to unverified individuals online.
3. Cross‑check relocation details with official channels before accepting foreign employment.
4. Report suspicious activities immediately to local authorities.
5. Avoid sharing unverified news, which can inadvertently endanger victims.

Analyst’s View: Prevention Over Reaction

Ms. Sreyneath Meas, a policy analyst at the Royal University of Phnom Penh (RUPP), said the strategy addresses a critical vulnerability.

“Law enforcement raids are reactive. By positioning journalists as a preventative pillar, the government aims to build societal immunity to digital fraud. Media literacy must evolve alongside technology.”

According to the Ministry of Interior, more than 1,200 human trafficking cases were reported in 2025. (Data for 2026 is not yet available.)

The question now is whether Cambodia’s media outlets have the resources and training to fulfill this new role effectively.

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The remarks were made during a farewell meeting with H.E. Tibor Baloghdi, Ambassador of Hungary to Cambodia, at the Senate’s Solidarity Palace on May 25, according to Senate Spokesperson H.E. Chea Thyrith.

Quick Facts: Cambodia-Hungary Relations

Strengthening Bilateral Ties Over Four Years

During the meeting, Samdech Techo praised the Hungarian ambassador for strengthening Cambodia‑Hungary relations during his four‑year diplomatic mission in the Kingdom.

Although Cambodia and Hungary are geographically distant, Samdech Techo noted that the two countries enjoy close and longstanding ties, which have now reached the 70th anniversary of diplomatic relations.

Ambassador Reflects on Cambodia’s Development

For his part, Ambassador Tibor Baloghdi said it had been a great honour to serve in Cambodia, describing the Kingdom as a beautiful country with remarkable development and steadily improving living standards for its people.

He noted that bilateral relations had continued to progress over the past four years, particularly cooperation between the legislative and executive branches of both countries. The Ambassador also expressed appreciation for the support and cooperation extended by Cambodian institutions throughout his diplomatic mission.

Growing Trade and Economic Cooperation

H.E. Tibor Baloghdi further highlighted growing trade exchanges between the two countries, especially the recent increase in Cambodian exports to Hungary, expressing hope that economic and trade cooperation would continue to expand.

He added that Cambodia and Hungary are jointly organising activities to celebrate the 70th anniversary of diplomatic relations this year, aiming to further strengthen bilateral friendship and cooperation.

Samdech Techo Recalls Long‑standing Friendship

Samdech Techo thanked the Ambassador for his efforts in promoting bilateral ties and recalled his own visits to Hungary dating back to his tenure as foreign minister. He also noted the growing exchanges of high‑level visits between the two countries, including his official visit to Hungary in 2019 and the subsequent visit of the Hungarian President to Cambodia.

The Acting Head of State stressed that despite the geographical distance, the close friendship and strong bonds between Cambodia and Hungary have remained solid and enduring.

Human Resource Development as a Legacy

Samdech Techo specifically acknowledged Hungary’s long‑standing support for Cambodian education and training. Many senior Cambodian officials, diplomats, and technical experts received their university education in Hungary under bilateral scholarship programmes dating back to the 1980s.

This human capital has contributed significantly to Cambodia’s reconstruction and development over the past four decades.

Outlook

As both countries mark 70 years of diplomatic relations, Cambodia and Hungary are expected to organise additional cultural and economic events throughout 2026. Areas of potential future cooperation include water management, digital transformation, and agricultural technology, where Hungary holds recognised expertise.

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According to a press release issued by the General Commissariat of National Police on May 24, the operations were carried out under the direction of the Royal Government and the Ministry of Interior in cooperation with relevant law enforcement agencies and local authorities.

Quick Facts: May 2026 Online Scam Crackdown

50 Locations Raided, 32 Nationalities Arrested

Between May 1 and May 22, authorities raided 50 locations linked to online scam activities across the country, arresting approximately 3,320 individuals of 32 nationalities.

The scale of the operation reflects a sustained government effort to dismantle transnational cyber‑fraud syndicates operating from Cambodian soil.

Deportations, Court Referrals, and Releases

Of the total arrested:

The National Police said the intensive operations have disrupted scam networks, forcing some operators to go into hiding within Cambodia while others fled abroad and attempted to continue fraudulent activities in neighbouring countries.

Administrative Measures Against Property Owners

Alongside the crackdown, local authorities have also implemented administrative measures at collective accommodation sites and imposed fines on several property owners for negligence or for providing illegal accommodation to foreign nationals, in accordance with Sub‑Decree No. 03 on security and safety management at collective residential locations.

These measures signal that landlords and business owners who knowingly or negligently house scam operations will face penalties.

Commitment to Sustained Operations

The General Commissariat of National Police pledged to continue the operations on a permanent basis without relaxation and called on the public not to shelter or provide locations for online scam syndicates.

Citizens were encouraged to report any information related to online scam activities to the authorities to help maintain public order and social security.

Context

The May crackdown follows a series of high‑level directives from Acting Head of State Samdech Techo Hun Sen, who recently ordered tough legal action against officials involved in or failing to combat online scam networks. The government has also sought regional cooperation, particularly with China, to identify and repatriate foreign nationals operating illegal scam centres.

Human rights observers have noted the importance of due process for detainees, while welcoming the government’s increased enforcement efforts.

Outlook

With more than 1,500 suspects still awaiting legal procedures, provincial courts will face a heavy caseload in the coming months. The National Police have indicated that further raids are planned, and no end date has been set for the current campaign.

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The remarks were made during a meeting with leaders of ministries, institutions, and local authorities at the Koh Pich Convention and Exhibition Centre in Phnom Penh on May 24.

Quick Facts: Online Scam Crackdown in Cambodia

Thorough Investigations Ordered

Samdech Techo directed the Royal Government and the Ministry of Interior to conduct thorough investigations into arrested suspects involved in online scams, particularly those who lack passports or other legal documentation.

He instructed authorities to determine the specific countries and border checkpoints through which these suspects entered Cambodia. The goal, he said, is to clearly inform the international community about the routes most frequently exploited by transnational criminals.

National Reputation and Security at Stake

Samdech Techo warned that online scam operations have severely damaged Cambodia’s reputation, dignity, and national image, while also posing a long‑term threat to national security.

He praised the Royal Government for its ongoing crackdown on online scam syndicates and welcomed the recent removal of several officials linked to such activities. However, he stressed that dismissal from office is not enough.

“These groups cannot be allowed to escape responsibility because they are disastrous groups, and officials involved are disastrous officials,” Samdech Techo said, adding that inactive officials who refuse to act against online scams should also be removed from their positions.

He called for those implicated to face legal action and court prosecution following thorough, transparent investigations.

Economic Consequences

Samdech Techo further noted that online scam activities not only affect Cambodia’s international standing but also harm the economy by discouraging foreign investors and tourists from visiting the country.

“Cambodia’s economy does not depend on online scam operations,” he underlined, reaffirming the need to eradicate such crimes to protect national interests and public confidence.

Context

Cambodia has been intensifying its crackdown on online scam compounds, particularly in border areas such as Sihanoukville and Bavet. In recent months, authorities have arrested and deported thousands of foreign nationals linked to cyber‑fraud operations. The government has also sought cooperation with regional partners, including China and ASEAN member states, to dismantle transnational syndicates.

The Acting Head of State’s latest directive signals a zero‑tolerance approach not only toward the scam operators themselves but also toward any officials found to be complicit or negligent.

Analyst’s View

Dr. Chheng Kimlong, a political and security analyst, said that Samdech Techo’s statement reflects a shift from operational crackdowns to institutional accountability.

“The removal of officials is one thing, but prosecution sends a much stronger deterrent message. It tells the public and the international community that Cambodia is serious about cleaning up its own house. This is essential for rebuilding trust with foreign investors and travel partners.”

Outlook

The Ministry of Interior is expected to release further details on investigations into complicit officials in the coming weeks. Human rights organisations have welcomed the government’s tougher stance but have urged transparency and due process to ensure that those prosecuted receive fair trials.

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