AKP Phnom Penh, April 23, 2026 -- Cambodia has prepared a new draft law on military service consisting of 8 chapters and 20 articles, aimed at implementing Article 49 (new) of the Constitution of the Kingdom of Cambodia.

The draft law was approved in a plenary cabinet meeting held at the Peace Palace in Phnom Penh on April 23 under the chairmanship of Prime Minister Samdech Moha Borvor Thipadei Hun Manet. 

According to a press release issued on Thursday evening, the draft law sets out measures for the implementation of military service obligations, which it describes as an essential duty and great honour of Cambodian citizens in contributing to national development and defending the motherland. It is also intended to strengthen national defence capabilities, promote physical development, and cultivate patriotism, discipline, and civic responsibility.

Under the draft law, all Cambodian citizens aged 18 to 25 would be subject to military service requirements in accordance with legal provisions. For women, military service would be based on a voluntary principle.

The legislation has been introduced under an urgent procedure.

Cambodia previously enacted a Law on Military Service in 2006 along with related legal instruments, but the law no longer comprehensively addresses present and future needs, making a revised legal framework necessary.

The Royal Cambodian Armed Forces have continued to carry out national defence duties, participate in social development, assist in emergency response efforts, and implement government directives in a timely and effective manner.

By C. Nika