The Cambodian government has officially begun enforcing a new military conscription law that carries a maximum prison sentence of five years for those who evade military service, amid ongoing tensions along the Thailand-Cambodia border.
Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet revealed on Monday, 25 May, that the law is now in effect after it was signed into law last Saturday by Senate President Hun Sen, who is acting as head of state while King Norodom Sihamoni is in China receiving treatment for prostate cancer.
This new conscription law was introduced following two border clashes between Thailand and Cambodia last year, which resulted in approximately 100 deaths and forced hundreds of thousands of residents to flee the area.
The new legislation consists of eight chapters and 20 articles, replacing the 2006 law which was never seriously enforced and was considered outdated.
Key provisions require Cambodian men aged between 18 and 25 to serve two years in the military, while women may volunteer for service.
Those summoned must report within 30 days of notification; failure to do so without valid reasons is considered draft evasion.
Penalties for draft evasion vary depending on the country's situation. In peacetime, offenders may face imprisonment from six months to two years and fines ranging from 250 to 1,000 US dollars. During war or foreign invasion, penalties increase to imprisonment of two to five years and fines between 1,000 and 2,500 US dollars.
However, the law exempts monks, clergy, disabled persons, and individuals with specialized skills in science and technology from conscription. Those who have completed service are designated as reserves until the age of 45.
Earlier, Hun Manet told parliament that this law serves as a fundamental basis for instilling patriotism in Cambodian youth, encouraging nationalism, and preparing them to defend the country through future military service.
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