Cambodia to strip citizenship in new law
Constitutional Shift Paves the Way for Citizenship Revocation in Cambodia
In a unanimous move, all 125 members of the Cambodian National Assembly—including Prime Minister Hun Manet—amended the constitution to transform the language from an absolute safeguard of national identity into a flexible clause that allows the state to decide matters of nationality by law.
Key Textual Change
- The former text declared that no Khmer citizen could be deprived of nationality, exiled, or extradited without mutual agreement.
- The new wording states that “receiving, losing, and revoking Khmer nationality shall be determined by law.”
Justice Minister’s Vision for Enforcement
Justice Minister Koeut Rith announced that the amendment will serve as the foundation for legislation that empowers the government to strip citizenship from anyone who collaborates with foreign powers in a manner deemed harmful to the state. He emphasized, “If you betray the nation, the nation will not keep you.” A revocation law will soon be forwarded to the Assembly for final approval.
Human Rights Concerns
Rights advocates fear that the new law will be weaponized to target critics and opposition voices. Amnesty International described the potential revocation as a “heinous violation of international law.” Montse Ferrer, the regional research director, warned that Cambodia could use statelessness as a tool to suppress dissent.
Comparative Global Context
- In 15 EU countries, citizenship can be revoked on grounds of treason or disloyalty, but only naturalized citizens are affected in eight of those states.
- European Parliament in February highlighted that revocation for naturalized nationals remains limited.
Historical Precedent of Political Grievances
Former leader Hun Sen last month called for constitutional amendments to enable the revocation of identity for Cambodians who “side with foreign nations to harm our country.” This call came amid criticism from exiled opposition figures during a border dispute with Thailand. Minister Koeut Rith dismissed concerns of abuse, stating that politicians who do not commit treason or harm the national interest would not face revocation but might face other charges.
Authoritarian Legal Repercussions
Scores of opposition activists have been jailed or face legal cases filed by authorities. Opponent leader Kem Sokha was sentenced in 2023 to 27 years in prison for treason—a charge he has repeatedly denied—immediately followed by house arrest.
