The Cambodian National Assembly has unanimously passed a new law that empowers the government to revoke citizenship from individuals deemed to have colluded with foreign entities or acted in ways considered disloyal to the nation.
Prime Minister Hun Manet and all 120 lawmakers present voted in favor of the legislation, which has sparked immediate concern among international human rights organizations. The law, which amends Cambodia’s constitution to allow nationality to be “determined by law,” is expected to be swiftly ratified by the upper house and enacted by the head of state.
Justice Minister Koeut Rith defended the move, stating, “If you betray the nation, the nation will not keep you”. However, critics argue that the law’s vague language opens the door to arbitrary enforcement, potentially targeting political opponents, journalists, and activists under the guise of national security.
A coalition of 50 rights groups issued a joint statement warning that the legislation could have a “disastrously chilling effect” on freedom of speech and political expression. Amnesty International has condemned the law as a “heinous violation of international law,” citing concerns over judicial independence and the potential for abuse.
The new law places Cambodia among a growing list of countries with legal provisions to revoke citizenship on grounds of treason or disloyalty. However, unlike many jurisdictions where such measures apply only to naturalized citizens, Cambodia’s law could affect native-born citizens as well.