Cambodia Reaffirms Commitment to UN Human Rights Mechanisms

PHNOM PENH, July 14, 2026 (KPT) – Cambodia has reaffirmed its commitment to working with the United Nations human rights office following talks between Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Prak Sokhonn and the new representative of the UN Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) in Phnom Penh. The foreign ministry said Prak Sokhonn met Matilda Bogner on July 10 for a courtesy call and discussions at the ministry. He welcomed her appointment and stressed Cambodia’s readiness to maintain “constructive cooperation” with OHCHR, highlighting what officials described as a 33‑year partnership. He thanked the UN office for its technical assistance and engagement with Cambodian institutions, including the Human Rights Committee. Bogner said OHCHR looked forward to continuing cooperation with the government, praising Cambodia’s engagement with international human rights mechanisms. She noted the office’s readiness to provide technical support in treaty reporting, legal reform, implementation of Universal Periodic Review recommendations and capacity‑building. The ministry said Prak Sokhonn reaffirmed Cambodia’s commitment to facilitating cooperation between OHCHR and relevant institutions, while continuing to engage with the UN human rights system. He also reiterated Cambodia’s pledge to resolve border issues peacefully and stressed the importance of the safe, voluntary and dignified return of displaced civilians. Prak Sokhonn briefed Bogner on humanitarian challenges along the Cambodia‑Thailand border, including the situation of internally displaced people. The two sides discussed reporting obligations, the planned visit of the UN Special Rapporteur on Cambodia and the forthcoming renewal of the Memorandum of Understanding between the government and OHCHR.