Cambodia’s new media rules raise press freedom alarm

Nop Vy

Cambodia’s Ministry of Information has unveiled strict new qualification standards for journalists and media outlets, sparking warnings from press freedom advocates that the rules could stifle participation and force smaller newsrooms to close.

Announced on 27 November, the regulations require editors-in-chief to be over 25, hold a recognised journalism degree or pass a ministry test, and have at least three years’ experience. Journalists and content creators must also hold a Bachelor’s degree and be over 20. Media companies will be obliged to maintain full staffing structures, including directors, editors, finance and marketing teams, before being allowed to operate.

Minister Net Pheaktra said the measures aim to “strengthen journalism order” and improve information quality. But critics argue the rules are burdensome and risk undermining freedom of expression. Nop Vy, head of the Cambodian Journalists Alliance Association, warned the requirements could “negatively influence” the profession, adding that higher costs and stricter standards may push outlets out of business.

Pa Chanroeun, President of the Cambodian Institute for Democracy, described the move as controversial, saying it hands the ministry excessive power to decide who qualifies as a journalist. He cautioned that investigative reporters, freelancers and younger journalists could be excluded, and urged the creation of an independent National Press Council to oversee ethics and training instead of government control.

The debate comes as Cambodia prepares a consultation in Phnom Penh this week on protecting press freedom, journalist safety and access to information. Advocates say the new rules contradict constitutional guarantees and echo past concerns over licence revocations and restrictions on independent media.

With more than 10,000 journalists working in the country, and 875 online outlets licensed last year, the new framework could reshape Cambodia’s media landscape. For now, stakeholders are calling for review and revision before the rules take effect, warning that the cost of tighter control may be paid in diminished press freedom.

-2025-11-28