Cambodian Lawmakers Amend Constitution to Allow Revocation of Citizenship for Foreign Collusion

On July 11, Cambodian lawmakers made significant changes to the constitution, enabling the government to revoke citizenship from individuals accused of collaborating with foreign powers. This decision, made unanimously by all 125 lawmakers, including Prime Minister Hun Manet, was seen as a move that could allow the Cambodian government to silence political dissent and opposition voices under the guise of national security.

Previously, the constitution prohibited the deprivation of Cambodian nationality, except under mutual agreements. The newly amended version states that the determination of nationality, including its loss or revocation, will be established by law. Justice Minister Koeut Rith justified the amendment by asserting that those who betray their country should not expect to retain their nationality, and a new law for citizenship revocation is expected to be introduced to the National Assembly.

Human rights organizations, however, have voiced their apprehensions regarding this amendment. They argue that such legislation could selectively target critics and dissenters while fundamentally violating international legal standards. Amnesty International expressed that the ability to revoke citizenship could lead to misuse by the Cambodian government, potentially rendering individuals stateless and intensifying the crackdown on political opposition.