Cambodia Ministry of Information Rejects Media Freedom Report as Incomplete

The Ministry of Information in Cambodia has questioned the methodology and conclusions of reports on media freedom published by some journalist associations, stating they do not accurately reflect the reality in Cambodia. Mr. Tep Asnarith, spokesperson for the Ministry of Information, referred to a report released by the Cambodian Journalist Association (CAMBOJIC) for the second quarter of 2026, which highlighted 12 cases of alleged violations against journalists in the country and raised issues concerning media freedom. "Such information does not represent reality but is merely information gathering based on speculation. It cannot be used to evaluate the situation and work of journalists in Cambodia," Mr. Tep Asnarith emphasized. He stated that the Ministry of Information urges relevant associations to conduct deeper studies, verify data from all angles, and foster transparent cooperation with competent institutions and authorities. He warned that rushing to conclusions or publishing reports lacking scientific rigor and professionalism not only undermines the effectiveness of managing the media sector but also directly infringes upon citizens' constitutional right to receive accurate, transparent, and responsible information. Nevertheless, the Ministry welcomes the compilation of reports that promote scientific evaluation, genuine research, transparency, high professionalism, and true responsibility. However, the Ministry reiterated that all stakeholders must bear high responsibility for the content of their reports and for any negative consequences that may arise from the dissemination of reports lacking standards, verification, and balanced information mechanisms, which could impact the sector and create societal misunderstandings. According to Mr. Tep Asnarith, the Ministry of Information has intervened to mediate disputes and issues faced by journalists. From 2025 to August 2026, the ministry successfully mediated 49 out-of-court dispute resolutions concerning 58 complaints filed against journalists, protecting 69 journalists from legal charges under the Law on the Regime of Media. For the remaining pending cases, the ministry's expert team is continuing to examine and mediate them. Concurrently, the ministry has provided guidance and education on media ethics to journalists and social media content creators in approximately 20 other cases, strengthening their capacity in ethical conduct, professional production and broadcasting, and social responsibility. Furthermore, Mr. Tep Asnarith added that in addition to out-of-court dispute resolution, the Ministry of Information has assigned lawyers to provide legal defense in court proceedings from 2025 to August 2026, successfully resolving 7 cases and representing a total of 14 journalists. Beyond these, the Ministry continues to intervene in several other cases, both within and outside the courts, and has provided legal consultation to journalists from 33 other media organizations.