Cambodia Launches 'Say No to Fake News' Campaign to Foster Responsible Digital Citizens

The Ministry of Information has officially launched the second phase of the "Say No to Fake News" campaign in Siem Reap, aiming to combat the detrimental effects of misinformation on society. Representing Minister Nell Pheaktra, Secretary of State Kau Imron stated at the opening ceremony on July 3, 2026, that while digital technology, the internet, and social media offer immense convenience, they also pose significant risks, particularly in the form of "fake news." Imron warned that fake news not only pollutes national society but can also erode trust, create misunderstandings, and incite chaos within families and communities. He urged the youth to actively prepare themselves to become "good digital citizens" and "information security agents." He emphasized that responsible information sharing serves as a shield protecting society from misinformation. Before believing or clicking the share button, individuals should "pause for a moment" to verify the source, ensuring it is clear, accurate, and highly responsible. Intelligent youth must use technology wisely, think critically, and not be easily deceived by rumors or fabricated news. Furthermore, he stressed the importance of understanding and sharing knowledge about information security and how to prevent digital risks for those around them. He added, "Peace is the fundamental basis for promoting and exercising the rights of children and youth." Lee Bunna, Director of the Department of Education, Youth, and Sports in Siem Reap, highlighted the campaign's significance for students in the digital age, where rapid advancements in information and technology have made sharing and accessing information faster and easier for the public, especially the youth. However, he noted that students are negatively impacted by daily exposure to fake news, which can affect their studies, cause psychological and emotional distress, lead to confusion, disrupt unity and friendship, result in moral decay, poor decision-making, and potentially escalate to violence in schools and society. Bunna believes that promoting information literacy, media literacy, and digital literacy is a crucial task for students in the 21st century. Cultivating the ability of young people to think, analyze, verify information sources, and use technology responsibly is a vital foundation for building competent and ethical "digital citizens."