AKP Phnom Penh, February 24, 2025 --

Cambodian Deputy Prime Minister H.E. PRAK Sokhonn, Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, on Feb. 24 delivered a pre-recorded intervention at the High-Level Segment of the 58th session of the Human Rights Council, underscoring Cambodia’s commitment to global peace, development, and human rights.
 
In his address, H.E. Deputy Prime Minister stressed the urgent need for peace amid escalating global uncertainties, geopolitical divisions, and humanitarian crises. He emphasised that peace is fundamental to sustainable development and the protection of human rights. Cambodia's history serves as a testament to the possibility of transformation from three decades of conflict to peace, stability, and prosperity under the visionary leadership of Samdech Techo HUN Sen and the Win-Win Strategy.

Cambodia's commitment to global peace is evident through its contributions to the UN peacekeeping missions. Nearly 10,000 Cambodian peacekeepers, including more than 800 women have been deployed since 2006 in 11 UN peacekeeping mission worldwide.

H.E. Deputy Prime Minister also reaffirmed Cambodian Government's dedication to human rights, highlighting its active engagement with UN human rights mechanisms. This includes participation in the 4th cycle of the Universal Periodic Review (UPR) in May 2024 and the renewal of its Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Office of the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR). He stated that Cambodia’s acceptance of 85 percent of the UPR recommendations demonstrates its consistent commitment to advancing human rights and its openness to constructive dialogue.

According to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Cambodia underscored the importance of and highly appreciates the impartiality and fairness in UN human rights assessments, urging mandate holders to uphold a balanced and objective approach to avoid politicisation and double standards.

As part of her commitment to democratic governance, Cambodia continues to foster civic engagement, reinforcing an inclusive and transparent approach to governance, reaffirming accountability, and respecting the rule of law, which are the essential pillars of a thriving democracy.

By C. Nika