The government has approved a draft law aimed at addressing the denial of crimes committed during the Democratic Kampuchea regime. The decision was made during a Cabinet meeting on Friday and follows a proposal by Senate President Hun Sen on May 22, 2024, which was later endorsed by Prime Minister Hun Manet on July 26, 2024.
The new draft law, comprising seven articles, is set to replace the 2013 legislation and seeks to penalize individuals who publicly deny the crimes committed during the Khmer Rouge regime. These crimes, including genocide, crimes against humanity, and violations of the 1949 Geneva Conventions, have been officially recognized through rulings by the Extraordinary Chambers in the Courts of Cambodia (ECCC). The law aims to uphold justice for victims, preserve the historical record, and prevent future atrocities.
Stricter penalties are outlined in the draft law, with prison sentences ranging from one to five years and fines increasing from 10 million to 50 million Riels (approximately $2,400 to $12,000). In comparison, the 2013 legislation imposed lighter penalties of six months to two years in prison and fines of one million to four million Riels.
A government press release emphasized that the law reflects a commitment to maintaining the integrity of ECCC rulings while ensuring accountability. The draft will now proceed to the National Assembly for review and approval.
Sek Socheat, a policy and research development consultant, voiced concerns about the potential impact of the law, arguing that history should remain open to examination and debate. “History is a foundation for reflection and education,” Socheat said, cautioning that the law could hinder academic research and limit public discussions about Cambodia’s past. He urged the government to reconsider the legislation to safeguard freedoms of expression and academic inquiry.
During a ceremony marking the 46th anniversary of Victory Day on January 7, 2025, Hun Sen highlighted the importance of the legislation. He described it as essential to remembering the “dark era” of the Khmer Rouge and preventing a recurrence of such atrocities. “January 7 has only one enemy – the genocidal regime,” he stated. Hun Sen emphasized that the regime’s crimes under Pol Pot’s leadership are undeniable historical facts, as is the nation’s liberation on January 7, 1979.
After 43 years, Cambodia has achieved justice for the Khmer Rouge’s atrocities, marked by the ECCC’s conclusion in prosecuting the regime’s leaders.
0.000 SRY