AKP Phnom Penh, May 12, 2026 --

The National Assembly (NA) has unanimously approved the draft law on military service, which introduces compulsory conscription requiring young male citizens to complete two years of military service.

The approval was made during an extraordinary session held at the NA Palace in Phnom Penh on May 12 under the chairmanship of NA President Samdech Maha Rathsapheathika Thipadei Khuon Sudary,

All 114 lawmakers present voted in favour of the draft law, which consists of eight chapters and 20 articles.

The legislation aims to strengthen national defence, safeguard territorial integrity, and promote patriotism among Cambodian youth. It will now be submitted to the Senate for further review and approval.

Under the draft law, all male Cambodian citizens between the ages of 18 and 25 will be required to serve for 24 months, in line with practices in several other countries. Military service for women will remain voluntary.

The implementation is planned to begin in 2026, with registration starting for individuals aged 17. Exemptions will apply to Buddhist monks and religious clergy, citizens with special academic or professional talents, and persons with disabilities.

The government stated that the 2006 military service law no longer fully reflects current realities, necessitating this revision to better strengthen national defence, protect territorial integrity, and instill patriotism in future generations.

It also noted that the revised framework will support more structured recruitment, allowing selected conscripts to join the armed forces, while others will return to civilian life with training, discipline, and basic skills acquired during service.

By C. Nika