Cambodia’s Youth Divided as Conscription Returns Amid Border Tensions

KT

PHNOM PENH — Cambodia’s announcement that it will enforce long-dormant military conscription laws has sparked a mix of unease and patriotic fervour among young citizens, as tensions with neighbouring Thailand continue to rise.

Prime Minister Hun Manet confirmed the conscription plan earlier this month, citing a deadly border clash in May that killed a Cambodian soldier. Under the revived law, men and women aged 18 to 30 could be called up for two years of military service starting next year. The move, aimed at replacing ageing troops and reinforcing Cambodia’s 200,000-strong armed forces, comes as relations with Thailand grow more strained over the disputed Emerald Triangle region.

“I’m worried for my family,” said 25-year-old tuk-tuk driver Voeun Dara in Phnom Penh. “We’re poor, and if I have to serve, they’ll struggle.”

While some fear economic hardship or disruption to studies, others see it as a duty. Ray Kimhak, a 21-year-old graphic design student whose brother-in-law is already deployed at the border, said he’s ready to follow suit. “We are ready to protect our territory — once it’s gone, it’s gone.”

Women will also be subject to conscription but may opt for voluntary civil service instead. Yet 23-year-old Leakhena, a telecom saleswoman, says she would willingly serve on the front line. “I feel proud of our soldiers. They are so brave,” she said.

Cambodia’s conscription law, passed in 2006, has never before been enforced. The announcement has reignited painful memories for older generations, including survivors of the Khmer Rouge era, when forced recruitment and child soldiers were widespread.

Even so, some veterans back the policy. A 64-year-old ex-soldier, maimed by a landmine in the 1970s, said, “Being a soldier is not easy, but we must defend our land.”

Not all are convinced. One fine art student warned the policy risks undermining Cambodia’s fragile economic recovery post-Covid. “We’re still developing. If this is enforced too soon, it could hurt the economy.”

Analyst Ou Virak noted the army still faces internal reform challenges. “For conscription to be accepted, trust must be earned,” he said.

Cambodia’s defence budget for 2025 has already climbed to $739 million — the largest share of its national budget — with promises of further increases on the horizon.

-2025-07-23