AKP Phnom Penh, April 30, 2026-- 

Press freedom in Cambodia continues to show a favourable environment, with more than 70 percent of journalists reporting that they have worked without threats, according to H.E. Tep Asnarith, Spokesperson and Undersecretary of State at the Ministry of Information.

Speaking at the National Conference held under the theme “Shaping a Peaceful Future: Promoting Press Freedom for Human Rights, Development, and Security,” H.E. Tep Asnarith highlighted significant progress in Cambodia’s press freedom landscape, as well as the Royal Government’s efforts to protect journalists through legal mechanisms and out-of-court dispute resolution.

“70.4 percent of survey respondents said they had never encountered intimidation, harassment, or violence while performing their work over the past year,” he said.

In addition, 84.6 percent reported that they had never been sued by citizens or authorities in connection with their reporting, he added.

The spokesperson further noted that from 2025 to the first quarter of 2026, the Ministry of Information has actively supported and protected journalists by facilitating the release or bail of 14 journalists, mediating 37 out-of-court disputes or complaints involving 69 individuals, and providing legal protection in seven court cases involving 15 individuals.

H.E. Tep Asnarith stressed that strengthening regulations and updating legal frameworks in the media sector should not be seen as restrictions on press freedom, but as necessary measures to protect professional journalists from impersonation, disinformation, and attacks driven by fake news—especially in an era increasingly influenced by artificial intelligence (AI).

According to the spokesperson, 96.3 percent of survey respondents supported stricter professional qualification standards to safeguard journalistic integrity and strengthen public trust in the media.

“The Ministry remains committed to enhancing information security and improving professional standards,” he said.

He also called on all stakeholders to engage constructively, acknowledge realities, and recognise Cambodia’s progress, particularly the Ministry’s ongoing efforts to further enhance and promote press freedom as a cornerstone of democratic governance under the rule of law.

By Heng Panha