We take note of the results of the elections in Cambodia on July 23. These elections took place in a restrictive political environment, which left Cambodian voters with little space to express dissent and without a genuine choice at the ballot box. We regret that the largest opposition party was not allowed to register for the elections. We were deeply disappointed by the verdict against Kem Sokha earlier this year on charges related to his political activities, as well as by criminal charges and convictions brought against other members of the opposition. Excessive restrictions on the right of all citizens to stand for elections and the closure of the media outlet “Voice of Democracy” have further curtailed civic and political space ahead of the vote.

Germany has been a long-standing partner of Cambodia’s development. We care about peace and prosperity for the Cambodian people and value Cambodia’s principled attachment to the UN Charter and its support to Ukraine in the Russian war of aggression. At the same time, we attach great importance to the principle of free, fair and inclusive elections as a basic prerequisite for any democratic society. Therefore, we encourage the newly elected members of parliament and the next Cambodian government to fully reinstate conditions for multi-party democracy and respect for human rights, as guaranteed by Cambodia’s constitution and in line with Cambodia’s commitments under the Paris Peace Agreements.