Cambodia slams UK for politicising rights issues

CAMBODIAN Ambassador and Permanent Representative to the United Nations in Geneva An Sokkhoeurn slammed the UK delegation for not following the agenda and politicising rights issues.

Sokkhoeurn was addressing the UN Human Rights Council during a general debate on technical assistance and capacity building on Friday.

The UK delegation was led by Rita French, the Deputy Permanent Representative to the UN in Geneva and International Ambassador for Human Rights. While also raising concerns on the rights situation in several countries, French took particular note of Cambodia.

“We urge Cambodia to take further steps to restore democracy and freedom of expression. We appreciate cooperation with the Special Rapporteur and technical work with OHCHR (Office of the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights),” she said.

Sokkhoeurn said French’s speech was wide off the mark, with the council’s agenda “hijacked for political purpose”.

He pointed out that Cambodia was not included in the agenda and its situation was due to be discussed at the Council’s 45th session on Advisory Service and Technical Assistance for Cambodia.

“The arrogant act of the UK delegation constitutes a crystal clear manifestation of politicisation in the work of human rights and abuse of this august Council.

“This practice must be refrained and ceased if we are to uphold credibility and effectiveness of this body in promotion and protection of human rights,” he added.

Sokkhoeurn said Cambodia placed high value on freedom of expression in line with the laws, as evidenced by the operations of more than 1,000 traditional and digital media outlets in the country.

Some of the outlets, which were known for being critical of the government, were free to broadcast or publish their news without prior censorship, he said.

“Political discourse and comments on public affairs with (intended) insults, hatred, incitement to commit a felony, call for rebellion against the democratically elected government, and spread of fake news and disinformation does not equate to freedom of expression,” he said.