In a statement released on September 14, 2023, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation of Cambodia has taken aim at the credibility of the Human Rights Watch (HRW), accusing the organization of perpetuating inaccurate, biased, and misleading narratives about the country’s human rights situation.
The Spokesperson of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation finds it imperative to present factual accounts that challenge the HRW’s presumption of a continual decline in Cambodia’s human rights situation. The spokesperson argues that this narrative is neither balanced, objective, nor proportionate, and that the HRW’s emphasis on civil and political rights at the expense of other fundamental rights is contrary to the United Nations’ standard.
According to the Ministry, Cambodia has made significant progress in implementing the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), with 72.5% of the country’s SDG indicators and sub-indicators on track. Notably, a Western ambassador in Phnom Penh recently lauded Cambodia as an “economic miracle”.
The Ministry also rejects the claim that the 2023 general election was conducted within a severely restricted space, pointing out that the election with 18 competing political parties underscored Cambodia’s democratic maturity, with an impressive voter participation rate of nearly 85%. Statements from national and international observers confirmed that the election was conducted in a free, fair, transparent, peaceful, and inclusive manner.
The Ministry also takes issue with the HRW’s consistent failure to address the “dangerous and extremist” rhetoric of certain elements within the opposition, which spread disinformation, engaged in indiscriminate insults and slanders, incited violence and racial hatred, and openly called for sedition. This, the Ministry argues, is contrary to the principles of responsible discourse and democracy.
The credibility of the Human Rights Watch has long been tarnished, dating back to 2014 when a former UN Assistant Secretary-General and two Nobel Peace Laureates, along with over 100 scholars, publicly criticized this organization for its inherent bias and double standards.
This statement is a significant development in Cambodia’s diplomatic efforts to push back against criticism of its human rights record. The move reflects the government’s commitment to promoting a balanced and accurate understanding of its policies and practices.
Bilateral Relations and Regional Cooperation
Cambodia’s foreign policy efforts also focus on strengthening bilateral relations with key partners, including regional organizations such as ASEAN. The country has been actively engaged in regional initiatives aimed at promoting economic cooperation, social development, and human rights protection.
Significance of Cambodia’s Diplomatic Efforts
Cambodia’s diplomatic pushback against the Human Rights Watch criticism highlights the importance of promoting a balanced and accurate understanding of its policies and practices. The move demonstrates the country’s commitment to engaging with international organizations and stakeholders in a constructive and respectful manner.
As Cambodia continues to navigate the complexities of regional and global affairs, its diplomatic efforts will be critical in shaping the country’s relationships with key partners and promoting its interests on the world stage.
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