AKP Phnom Penh, July 10, 2025 --

The Royal Government of Cambodia officially launched the Strategic Framework for the Legal Reform Programme this morning at the Peace Palace, with the aim of establishing an “Integrated Legal System and a Sustainable Rule of Law Culture.”

The launching ceremony was presided over by Samdech Moha Borvor Thipadei Hun Manet, Prime Minister of the Kingdom of Cambodia.

In his address, Samdech Thipadei Hun Manet emphasised that the Strategic Framework for the Royal Government’s Legal Reform Programme is one of the key priorities of the Royal Government of the 7th Legislature of the National Assembly in advancing the principle of the rule of law.

“Legal reform remains a core priority of the Royal Government to promote continued progress and ensure Cambodia’s sustainable development in alignment with international legal standards,” he underlined.

H.E. Vongsey Vissoth, Permanent Deputy Prime Minister and Minister in Charge of the Office of the Council of Ministers, stated that the principle of the rule of law requires a legal system that is clear, precise, responsive to Cambodia’s social and historical contexts, and reflective of international best practices. He stressed that this principle continues to serve as the guiding philosophy for state governance, nation-building, and socio-economic development.

He recalled that following the 1991 Paris Peace Agreements, Cambodia adopted constitutional monarchy and the rule of law in 1993 as part of its foundational pillars, alongside a multi-party liberal democracy and a market economy. These elements have fostered a society characterised by lasting peace, individual freedom, justice, equity, prosperity, and equal opportunity for all.

As Chairman of the Legal Reform Steering Committee, H.E. Vongsey Vissoth noted that over the past two decades, legal reform has achieved significant progress, building a strong foundation for state governance. These efforts have contributed to peace, public order, and socio-economic development, as well as Cambodia’s integration into regional and international frameworks.

He further explained that the newly launched Strategic Framework will serve as a comprehensive blueprint for leading, coordinating, advising on, drafting, monitoring implementation of, and resolving legal disputes—ensuring the effectiveness and efficiency of law enforcement across the country.

As of the end of the 6th Legislature of the National Assembly, Cambodia had enacted a total of 632 laws across various sectors. H.E. Vongsey Vissoth added that the 7th Legislature remains committed to promoting and strengthening legislative effectiveness, which is one of the five core priorities of the Royal Government’s agenda for reform and strengthening of governance.

By Heng Panha