AKP Phnom Penh, May 04, 2026 --

Cambodia is preparing to implement a new conscription law requiring men aged 18 to 25 to complete 24 months of military service, while those who evade the obligation could face prison sentences of up to five years.

The draft law on “Military Obligation” was reviewed in detail during a meeting of the National Assembly’s Fourth Commission on Interior, National Defence, Civil Service, and Border Affairs, chaired by H.E. Kep Chuktema, with representatives of the Royal Government led by Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of National Defence, H.E. Gen. Tea Seiha, at the National Assembly Palace on May 4.

The proposed legislation aims to strengthen national defence, safeguard territorial integrity, and foster patriotism among Cambodian youth.

Under the draft, all male Cambodian citizens between the ages of 18 and 25 would be required to serve for 24 months, with a possible extension of up to six months in exceptional circumstances. Individuals holding dual citizenship but residing in Cambodia would also be subject to the same obligation.

Military service for women would remain voluntary, though they are encouraged to participate. Exemptions would apply to Buddhist monks, religious clergy, persons with disabilities, and highly skilled professionals engaged in essential national duties.

To ensure enforcement, the draft law stipulates penalties for evasion, including fines and imprisonment ranging from six months to five years, depending on the severity of the case.

The Royal Government has also outlined a range of benefits for those who complete their service. These include priority access to public and private sector employment, job security and salary protection for those already employed, the ability to resume studies without losing academic progress, as well as allowances and provisions during the service period.

H.E. Kep Chuktema emphasised that the meeting was not intended as a forum for debate but rather as a mechanism to gather input and refine the draft to ensure its quality and national relevance.

He noted that the collaboration between the National Assembly and the Royal Government is aimed at producing a law that best serves the national interest and the Cambodian people.

H.E. Gen. Tea Seiha highlighted that the existing 2006 law no longer fully reflects current realities, making this update necessary to enhance Cambodia’s defence capacity and instill a stronger sense of national duty among future generations.

By C. Nika