Cambodia's New Conscription Law: Aiming for Patriotic Duty

Cambodia's new conscription law mandates two years of military service for men aged 18 to 25, with optional service for women. Penalties for evading service range depending on wartime or peacetime, while exemptions exist for certain groups. The law aims to foster patriotism among the youth.

Cambodia has enacted a new conscription law imposing prison sentences of up to five years on individuals evading military service, Prime Minister Hun Manet announced.

Signed recently by Senate President Hun Sen, who is acting as head of state while King Norodom Sihamoni receives medical treatment, the law responds to last year's deadly border clashes with Thailand.

Replacing a 2006 statute, the law requires men aged 18 to 25 to serve two years in the military, allowing voluntary service for women. Evasion leads to penalties, exacerbated during wartime. Exemptions include monks, priests, and those with disabilities or specialized skills. The government views this as a patriotic endeavor to strengthen youth commitment to national service.