Phnom Penh (FN), Dec. 12 – Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet outlined that while Cambodia acknowledges the presence of human trafficking within its territory, the country’s efforts to combat this issue must also be recognised. Samdech Thipadei called for swift responses to all false accusations.
The premier spoke on Thursday (Dec. 12) during the commemoration of the 12th National Day Against Human Trafficking, held at Diamond Island Convention and Exhibition Centre, Phnom Penh.
The premier’s comments follow the United States’ ranking of Cambodia as the third lowest tier in the fight against human trafficking over the past three years up to 2024. The US has accused some Cambodian officials of corruption and involvement in human trafficking, leading to widespread exploitation.
Recognising the challenge, Prime Minister Hun Manet noted that Cambodia cannot simply suppress or hide these issues. He stressed the importance of publicising genuine efforts and addressing misinformation. He cited an example where a Korean TV broadcast falsely reported a kidnapping in Cambodia, prompting the Royal Government to respond immediately. Additionally, allegations of “blood slavery,” beatings, and kidnappings in Sihanoukville were also untrue.
“In this new era, we face both real and fake information, which has significantly damaged our reputation. Some international assessments of Cambodia’s efforts to combat human trafficking have been inaccurate and unfair,” Samdech Thipadei underscored.
The premier continued, “We do not deny that we have problems. Cambodia has never denied the existence of human trafficking or other security issues. That is why we continue to strengthen law enforcement measures and enhance international cooperation, demonstrating our clear commitment.”
According to a report by the Anti-Human Trafficking Committee of the Ministry of Interior, released on 12 September 2024, Cambodia cracked down on 104 cases of human trafficking and sexual exploitation during the first half of 2024.
These operations resulted in the arrest of 134 suspects, including four foreigners. Authorities also rescued 290 victims, 241 of whom were women. Among the victims, 134 were minors under the age of 18.
Premier Hun Manet emphasised that certain countries’ assessments of Cambodia’s human trafficking situation do not reflect reality and are unjust. He highlighted the ongoing collaboration between the Royal Government and relevant partners to protect the safety and well-being of Cambodian citizens and humanity in general. This involves resolutely combating human trafficking in all its forms, regardless of gender, age, or location.
On the occasion, the premier reiterated Cambodia’s commitment to fighting transnational crime, particularly human trafficking. He underscored the importance of prevention, suppression of criminal tactics, and adherence to international standards to promote human rights and security.
Samdech Thipadei pointed out that assisting human trafficking victims is the duty of the Royal Government, regardless of nationality. He also stressed the need to strengthen the use of technology to prevent and combat human trafficking effectively.
=FRESH NEWS
