AKP Phnom Penh, May 20, 2026 --

The Senate of Cambodia on Wednesday 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 the Senate’s 5th session of the 5th legislature, chaired by Acting President H.E. Ouch Borith.

After hearing a report on the draft law presented by H.E. Dr. Neang Phat, Chairman of the Senate’s Committee on Interior, National Defence, Civil Service and Border Affairs, as well as opinions from five senators and explanations by H.E. Gen. Tea Seiha, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of National Defence, the Senate unanimously passed the draft law without amendment with 58 votes in favour.

Consisting of eight chapters and 20 articles, the legislation aims to strengthen national defence, safeguard territorial integrity, and promote patriotism among Cambodian youth.

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

Implementation is scheduled to begin in 2026, with registration starting for individuals aged 17. Exemptions will apply to Buddhist monks, 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, making the revision necessary to strengthen national defence, protect territorial integrity, and instill patriotism in future generations.

The revised framework is also expected to support more structured recruitment, enabling selected conscripts to join the armed forces, while others will return to civilian life with training, discipline, and practical skills gained during their service.

By C. Nika