A Royal Cambodian Armed Forces soldier reacts to a simulated IED during Counter‑IED training in Kampong Speu, part of Angkor Sentinel 2012 with Idaho Army National Guard. (Staff Sgt. April Davis)
The Cambodian Senate unanimously passed a new conscription law on May 20, requiring male citizens aged 18-25 to serve two consecutive years in the military. The legislation was approved during the 5th session of the 5th legislature.
Prior to the vote, senators heard the briefing from General Neang Phat, Permanent Secretary of State at the Ministry of National Defense and the Cambodian Senate’s Committee on Interior, National Defence, Civil Service and Border Affairs. General Tea Seiha, who serves as the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of National Defence, also addressed the chamber before the vote was cast. All 58 senators voted in favour, reflecting the consensus among legislators.
The law, comprising eight chapters and 20 articles, mandates 24 months of military service, aims to strengthen a trained reserve force, enhance defense capabilities and protect Phnom Penh’s territorial integrity. Military service for women remains voluntary. Exemptions will apply for several individuals who have ties with religious affiliations, disabilities and special “academic or professional talents”.
The Senate approval followed the Cambodian National Assembly on May 12, stipulating that all conscripts remain within the reserve force until the age of 45. Prime Minister Hun Manet, the bill’s initiator, strongly supported the draft law, stressing the need to modernise Cambodia’s defence sector.
“We must strengthen our capacity to preserve peace and safeguard territorial integrity and national sovereignty,” the Prime Minister stressed. Hun Manet also highlighted that military conscription contributes not only to defence readiness but also to youth development and national unity, declaring, “[t]o build a strong and prosperous nation, every citizen must strive to develop themselves into valuable national human resources.”
The new draft law replaces the 2006 version of Cambodia’s military draft system that is considered obsolete and inadequate for current security needs. Entering force this year, the revised system streamlines recruitment so selected individuals can serve in the armed forces, while the rest return to civilian life with valuable discipline, skills and training.
The new legislation will become a significant milestone in Cambodia’s defence trajectory, reflecting a direct response to regional security concerns involving Phnom Penh along the sensitive borderline issues with Bangkok.
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