Cambodia sets $100 pay for draftees

Cambodia has unveiled new details of its upcoming military draft, with a sub‑decree signed by Prime Minister Hun Manet on 12 August confirming that conscripts will receive a monthly stipend of 400,000 riel ($100). The announcement follows the revised Law on Military Service passed in May, though no date has yet been fixed for the first lottery draw.

The law requires a census of all Cambodian males aged 17 to 25, with a select number of 18‑ to 25‑year‑olds chosen by lottery to serve for 24 months. The Ministry of National Defence will determine how many recruits are needed before the first draw takes place.

Under the new rules, draftees will receive food allowances, uniforms, equipment and shelter, along with medical care if injured or ill. Compensation is also promised for those killed or disabled during service. Importantly, recruits will be guaranteed the right to return to their jobs or studies once their service ends, with employers and schools required to reinstate them.

The decree outlines deferment options to prevent disruption to education or overseas work.

Students, civil servants on missions abroad and workers overseas may apply for one‑year deferments, renewable up to four times. Crucially, deferments extend the age limit, ensuring that privileged citizens cannot “age out” of service at 25. Certain specialists — in fields such as engineering, healthcare or IT — may qualify for exemptions if they contribute equivalent work to the armed forces.

Committees at national and local levels will oversee the system, from conducting the annual census to handling deferment requests and complaints. Funding will come from the defence ministry’s budget.

While the framework is now in place, key questions remain unanswered: how many young men will be drafted, and when the first lottery will be held. For now, Cambodia’s youth face the prospect of conscription with clearer terms on pay and rights, but without certainty on when the process will begin.

-2026-08-13