Cambodia’s parliament has enacted a law imposing stricter penalties for genocide denial linked to the Khmer Rouge, including imprisonment and fines. The move is aimed at preventing historical revisionism and honoring victims, although it faces criticism for potentially suppressing political dissent.
On Tuesday, the Cambodian parliament unanimously approved a revised law that imposes stricter penalties for denying atrocities related to the Khmer Rouge regime. The government asserts that the legislation aims to ensure historical acknowledgment, prevent future atrocities, and provide justice for victims. The draft law has already passed government approval and is expected to clear the Senate and receive royal assent, steps deemed mere formalities.
The new legislation introduces seven provisions with increased penalties ranging from one to five years of imprisonment and fines from 10 million to 50 million riels ($2,480 to $12,400) for genocide denial. Similar legal frameworks exist in several European countries that criminalize Holocaust denial, showcasing a global trend toward accountability for historical atrocities.
This law builds upon a 2013 measure enacted by former Prime Minister Hun Sen, which critics have claimed was politically motivated. The opposition argues that the new law could exacerbate limits on political dissent, reinforcing concerns of increasing governmental control over free expression. Opposition figures, including a notable leader, have been accused by Hun Sen of fabricating evidence concerning Khmer Rouge atrocities.
Hun Sen, who led Cambodia for 38 years, was succeeded by his son, Hun Manet. The Cambodian People’s Party (CPP) has repeatedly faced allegations of manipulating the judicial system to suppress dissent and silence opposition. As Cambodia approaches the 50th anniversary of the Khmer Rouge’s rise to power on April 15, 1975, this law emphasizes historical reflection and accountability for past atrocities committed by the regime.
The Khmer Rouge regime, responsible for mass crimes against humanity from 1975 to 1979, caused the deaths of around 1.7 million people due to systematic oppression. These crimes prompted the United Nations to establish the Extraordinary Chambers in the Courts of Cambodia (ECCC) to hold the regime accountable. The severe violations spanned political, national, ethnic, racial, and religious lines, making this law essential in preserving historical truth and preventing future denial.
The Cambodian parliament’s passing of the revised law underlines the government’s commitment to confronting its traumatic past and discouraging genocide denial. While aiming to safeguard historical accuracy and justice for victims, the law has also sparked criticism over its potential misuse for political suppression. As Cambodia commemorates significant historical milestones, such laws highlight the ongoing struggles regarding free expression and political freedom in the country.
Original Source: www.jurist.org
