US draft bill ties aid to crisis, demands end to ‘violence and harassment’

[geovalin]

Erin Handley

A US Senate committee has inserted language into upcoming legislation that would block $77.8 million in aid to Cambodia unless the government ceases its “violence and harassment” against human rights workers and the political opposition.

The appropriations committee bill, sponsored by Republican Senator Lindsey Graham of South Carolina, said the fiscal year 2017 funding – which includes more than $33.6 million for health programs – would not be made available if they fail to receive certain assurances from the State Department.

“None of the funds appropriated by this Act may be made available for assistance for Cambodia unless the Secretary of State determines and reports to the appropriate congressional committees that the Government of Cambodia has ceased violence and harassment against civil society in Cambodia, including the political opposition,” the bill reads.

read more http://www.phnompenhpost.com/national

[tuanku]

There are some other Nations in SEA who's people might see some benefit from having similar caveats attached to trade and aid deals.............why only Cambodia?

[Searat7]

This report was about Cambodia only.....it's likely that there are strings attached to US aid provided to other countries too. Cambodia is ruled by a dictator for over 30 years...very little political freedom there. Time for some free elections there which would undoubtedly bring about some changes.

[sanukjim]

This report was about Cambodia only.....it's likely that there are strings attached to US aid provided to other countries too. Cambodia is ruled by a dictator for over 30 years...very little political freedom there. Time for some free elections there which would undoubtedly bring about some changes.

And you think that LOS is has not been ruled by a succession of dictators ? They just hide it by claiming a democracy with rigged elections.

[tuanku]

This report was about Cambodia only.....it's likely that there are strings attached to US aid provided to other countries too. Cambodia is ruled by a dictator for over 30 years...very little political freedom there. Time for some free elections there which would undoubtedly bring about some changes.

And you think that LOS is has not been ruled by a succession of dictators ? They just hide it by claiming a democracy with rigged elections.

Or not even pretending to do so!