Cambodia Passes Law Allowing Citizenship Revocation, Raising Concerns of Political Suppression

On Monday, Cambodian lawmakers approved a bill granting the government the authority to revoke the citizenship of individuals found guilty of conspiring with foreign entities to harm national interests. The amendment to the Nationality Law received unanimous approval from the 120 members of the National Assembly present.

Critics have voiced concerns that this amendment could be used to suppress dissent and control political opponents of Prime Minister Hun Manet and the ruling Cambodian People’s Party. Prior to the vote, a coalition of 50 Cambodian non-governmental organizations expressed deep worry over the bill's vague language, which they believe could lead to the arbitrary stripping of citizenship and have a chilling effect on freedom of speech.

The bill must now be approved by the Senate and King Norodom Sihamoni, steps typically considered formalities. Despite Cambodia's formal status as an electoral democracy, Hun Manet's party holds a significant majority in the National Assembly and controls all aspects of the government.

The legislation's passage coincides with a surge in nationalism following a border dispute with Thailand. Interior Minister Sar Sokha emphasized the importance of the law in fostering patriotism, particularly in light of what he characterized as an invasion by Thailand. He suggested that a small group of Cambodians were acting in ways that harmed the country's interests and national security, and that those who directly or indirectly harm the nation should no longer be considered citizens.

The law would apply to all Cambodian citizens, including those with dual citizenship and foreign nationals who have been granted Cambodian citizenship. Some prominent government critics and opposition politicians are known to hold dual citizenship. The government, under both Hun Manet and his father, has been known to suppress opposition.

Hun Manet has stated that many countries have similar laws allowing for citizenship revocation. He assured that the law would not affect those who are patriotic and do not oppose the country's interests, but that those who conspire with foreign powers to harm Cambodia should be concerned.