The Cambodian youth are feeling a complex blend of anxiety and national pride in light of the government's plans to enforce mandatory military conscription. Many, like Voeun Dara, a 25-year-old tuk-tuk driver from Phnom Penh, express concern about the financial impact that serving might have on their families. Dara worries that, should he be called to serve, it could complicate his family's already challenging economic situation.
Prime Minister Hun Manet has pointed to increasing tensions with Thailand as the impetus for this decision, stating that Cambodia will activate a longstanding law that mandates military service for citizens between the ages of 18 and 30. This law, previously dormant, is now being employed to bolster the country's defenses amid regional uncertainties, thereby influencing the outlook of many young Cambodians who are caught between a sense of duty and personal challenges.
4 Comments
Donatello
Taking young people out of education and vocational training is a disaster for our future!
Muchacho
We must show Thailand, and the whole world, that we are united and will not be intimidated.
Muchacha
Hun Manet's decision is a short-sighted response. It ignores the real needs of the Cambodian people.
ZmeeLove
We have our own dreams and aspirations! Conscription is a barrier to our progress and opportunities.