Cambodia to Enforce Conscription Law from 2026

[geovalin]

RCA

 

 

Cambodia will begin enforcing its long-dormant military conscription law in 2026, Prime Minister Hun Manet has announced, marking a significant shift in national defence policy nearly two decades after the law was passed.

 

Speaking at a military police training centre in Kampong Chhnang province on Monday, Mr Hun Manet said the country must modernise and reinforce its armed forces to be better prepared for future challenges. “From 2026, the military conscription law will be implemented. This is our commitment,” he declared.

 

The Law on Military Conscription, adopted in 2006 but never activated, requires Cambodian men aged 18 to 30 to serve. Amendments will likely extend the term from 18 to 24 months, a move the prime minister says is necessary for proper training and preparedness. Women may still volunteer, and exemptions remain for monks and those medically unfit.

 

Mr Hun Manet framed the decision as a matter of national resilience, saying Cambodia must not risk a shortage of trained troops. He emphasised that conscription would not only bolster numbers but also improve the quality and discipline of the military.

 

Supporters say the measure will strengthen national unity. “Military training will help young people become more thoughtful, focused, and strong,” said Oeur Sina, a private sector worker in Phnom Penh.

 

Analysts have welcomed the move in principle but urged fair and transparent enforcement. Seun Sam, of the Royal Academy of Cambodia, warned that if the wealthy and powerful are allowed to avoid service, public trust will erode. “It must be seen as a shared responsibility,” he said.

 

For many young Cambodians, the announcement signals a turning point. Some see it as a chance to serve their country and gain valuable life skills; others remain cautious about its broader implications.

 

What’s clear is that Cambodia’s defence strategy is changing—and this time, the government intends to follow through.

 

-2025-07-15

[MarkBR]

That should increase immigration from Cambodia to Thailand quite effectively

[pavlo]

Any ideas how this is going to get to made, picking up all as same age group, use same method as in Thailand with lottery ticket black/red ?

How to even accomodate and feed ten thousands more and where.  Or is this just hot air to show Thailand that Cambodia should not be underestimated ?