NextFin news, PHNOM PENH, Cambodia — On August 25, 2025, Cambodia's National Assembly unanimously passed a bill granting the government authority to revoke the citizenship of any person convicted of conspiring with foreign countries to damage Cambodia's national interests.
The legislation, approved by all 120 members present, amends the Nationality Law to allow citizenship deprivation for lifelong Cambodian citizens, dual nationals, and naturalized citizens involved in acts deemed harmful to the nation.
Interior Minister Sar Sokha defended the law during the parliamentary session, stating it aims to strengthen patriotism amid recent tensions with neighboring Thailand, which escalated into a five-day armed border conflict in late July 2025. He asserted that individuals who directly or indirectly harm Cambodia's interests should no longer be considered citizens.
Prime Minister Hun Manet, who succeeded his father Hun Sen in 2023, supported the measure, emphasizing that true patriots would never conspire with foreign powers to destroy their country. He noted that about 150 of nearly 200 United Nations member states have similar laws allowing citizenship revocation.
Critics, including 50 Cambodian non-governmental organizations, condemned the bill as vaguely worded and repressive, warning it could chill free speech and be used to suppress political dissent. They expressed concern that activists and opposition figures risk losing their citizenship and fundamental rights under the new law.
The bill must still be approved by Cambodia's Senate and signed by King Norodom Sihamoni, formalities expected to be completed without opposition, given the ruling Cambodian People's Party's dominance in government.
The law comes amid ongoing political tensions in Cambodia, where the main opposition party was dissolved in 2017, and opposition leaders have faced treason charges linked to alleged foreign conspiracies. The government has frequently used legal measures to limit opposition activities.
Sources: Channel News Asia, ABC News, The Canadian Press, Reuters, Al Jazeera.
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