The Diplomat: Cambodia’s Slide into Repression Under Hun Manet

PHNOM PENH — Two years into Hun Manet’s premiership, Cambodia’s political and economic trajectory has worsened, according to a scathing analysis published by The Diplomat. The article, penned by Sue Coffey and Gordon Conochie, paints a bleak picture of a country gripped by authoritarianism, corruption, and state-enabled cybercrime.

Hun Manet, son of long-time ruler Hun Sen, took office in August 2023, raising hopes that his Western education might usher in reform. Instead, The Diplomat argues, his tenure has entrenched the Cambodian People’s Party’s dominance, with Hun Sen still wielding power from the Senate and opposition parties systematically dismantled.

The report highlights Cambodia’s dismal rankings in global governance indices: 158th in Transparency International’s Corruption Index and 141st in the World Justice Project’s Rule of Law Index. Political repression has intensified, with dozens of activists and opposition figures jailed, and environmental defenders targeted as land grabs continue to benefit elites.

Economically, Cambodia faces mounting challenges. The garment sector remains its only viable industry, while external migration surges. The recent border conflict with Thailand saw over a million Cambodian workers return home, many now unemployed. In response, Hun Manet amended the Citizenship Law, allowing the state to revoke citizenship from those convicted of treason—an act widely condemned by rights groups.

Most alarming is the explosion of cybercrime. The Diplomat cites estimates that Cambodia’s scam economy generates up to $19 billion annually—nearly half the country’s GDP. With hundreds of compounds and over 150,000 foreign workers, the industry thrives under alleged government protection. Thai authorities recently issued an arrest warrant for CPP senator Kok An, linking him to scam operations and triggering a diplomatic rift.

While regional neighbours intensify efforts to combat cybercrime, Cambodia and Myanmar remain conspicuously absent. Independent media has been silenced, and foreign journalists barred, making scrutiny increasingly difficult.

With commune elections set for 2027 and national polls in 2028, The Diplomat questions whether any viable opposition can emerge. The article urges stronger international action—particularly from Australia—to support Cambodian civil society and hold ruling elites accountable.

Thirty-four years after the Paris Peace Agreements promised democracy, Cambodia’s future remains uncertain. But as The Diplomat concludes, its people have not given up hope.

-2025-09-17