Cambodian Journalists Alliance Association

Human Rights

Environmental rangers and villagers patrol community forests in Romnea commune. (Supplied)

Mondulkiri Court Questions Adhoc Official, Four Bunong Natives After They File Evidence of Forest Clearing 

Mondulkiri provincial court on Monday questioned NGO rights group Adhoc official and four Punong natives after land brokers and fellow villagers filed a defamation and incitement complaint against them. The complaint was made after the suspects submitted evidence of chopped trees and encroachment by the plaintiffs, made up of land brokers and a few villagers.
Hoeum Chhat, who said she had “no choice” to relocate to Run Ta Ek, stands outside her new home at the site on March 8, 2023. (CamboJA Staff)

“No Choice”: Forced Angkor Evictions Portrayed as Voluntary to UNESCO

Cambodian authorities say the 10,000 families removed from inside the Angkor Archaeological Park are relocating on a voluntary basis. But many families say they had no choice and lack critical infrastructure and economic opportunities at the new relocation site. In a report to UNESCO, Cambodia said the relocation site was “equipped’ and provided “decent and safe conditions" yet new residents of Run Ta Ek say the reality on the ground is far different.