Phnom Penh: The head of Cambodia’s Permanent Mission to the UN in Geneva has highlighted the progress the country has made in terms of human rights, despite the effects of Covid-19. Mr. An Sokkhoeurn was speaking at the 47th session of the Human Rights Council. He emphasized Cambodia’s vaccination program, distance learning during the prolonged school closure, as well as freedom of opinion and expression.

Mr. An Sokkhoeurn says human rights in Cambodia continues to be prioritized, despite the pandemic. He says that through the “humanitarian spirit of the government”, Cambodia has provided Covid-19 vaccines for free to both locals and foreigners. He says families whose livelihoods have been affected by restrictions have been provided with cash support.

With regards to freedom of opinion and expression, Mr. Sokkhoeurn says Cambodia values journalists, but not those spreading what he called fake news. He says this is why government prioritized the vaccination of journalists before members of the general public. Among other progress highlighted by the head of Cambodia’s Permanent Mission were efforts to end violence against women and children, the improvement of mental health services and the right to housing.