Information Minister Khieu Kanharith said the Royal Government of Cambodia (RGC) is still committed to improving respect for press freedom and freedom of expression as enshrined in the Constitution of the Kingdom of Cambodia.

Addressing the opening ceremony of the first National Media Development Conference held here yesterday morning, Khieu Kanharith said that the RGC always pays attention to maintaining a good working environment for the media and the broadcasting industry in Cambodia by ensuring respect for freedom of the press free from discrimination, intimidation and political leanings.

“Furthermore, the RGC always regards journalists as an indispensable partner in reflecting all aspects of social reality and helping to fight corruption, stimulate judicial and judicial reform and public administration reform with the aim of strengthen good governance in order to better promote democracy. , the rule of law, peace and sustainable social development,” he stressed.

The minister said that with these factors, the number of media in Cambodia, especially new media and the number of journalists are increasing year by year and journalists are carrying out their duties and missions throughout the country freely and without fear.

Actions against some media have been taken because they have violated existing laws and the rights and freedoms of others, which is unethical and unprofessional, Khieu Kanharith pointed out.

For his part, Mr. Sardar Umar Alam, UNESCO Representative in Cambodia, said that a free, independent and diverse media is a prerequisite for strong and transparent institutions, and a key factor in upholding the rights of the people. and ensuring that citizens can fully engage and participate in their society.

“However, with emerging global dynamics, attributed to rapid digitalization, increased control over information flows, and increasing geopolitical tensions and political polarization, we all face significant challenges if joint innovative efforts are not effectively mobilized to address these challenges and foster a resilient media development sector that serves as the foundation for a democratic society,” he continued.

For her part, Ms. Susanna Elmberger, Program Officer for Human Rights, Democracy and Rule of Law, Office of the Swedish Embassy Section in Phnom Penh, highlighted the commitment of the Swedish Government promote freedom of expression and access to information.

Over the past few years, she said, Sweden has worked with national and international partners in Cambodia, including UNESCO and OHCHR, helping to develop a national law on access to information, supporting independent media organisations, promoting the safety of journalists and supporting the country in honoring its human rights commitments. AKP-Heng Panha