GENEVA: The Cambodian Permanent Mission to the United Nations in Geneva submitted a total of 22 reports highlighting Cambodia's progress and achievements in the areas of law, policy and human rights. The reports noted the country’s dedication to promoting and protecting all types of rights, including civil, political, social, economic and cultural rights.

During the six-week meeting from 27 February to 4 April 2023, the Cambodian delegation also participated in discussions on strengthening the work of the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights, the Human Rights Council’s Special Procedures, and on the human rights situations in other countries.

The main content of the reports focused on Cambodia’s dedication to eliminating all forms of violence and exploitation of children, implementing preventative measures outlined in the National Policy on Child Protection System 2019-2029 and the "Child Consciousness" digital campaign. UNICEF praised Cambodia for its campaigns to eliminate violence against children in 2022.

Cambodia reiterated its support for the nearly 6,000 registered Civil Society Organizations, which are allowed to participate freely at both the national and regional levels and contribute to the promotion of good governance, judicial systems and human rights. The country noted that social critiques of public affairs are also supported through Cambodia's mobile data network, which offers the lowest rates in the region. They reported nearly 2,000 traditional and digital media outlets which operate without preliminary inspection and restrictions as guaranteed by the Press Law.

The reports stated that all human rights, including civil, political, social, economic and cultural rights, are essential, and that they are equally valued. Cambodia expressed its support for the impartial approach of the Human Rights Council, which is non-partisan, non-political, non-confrontational and non-standardized thereby promoting genuine dialogue and cooperation.

At the 52nd session of the Human Rights Council, Cambodia signed up to support 13 joint statements proposed by ASEAN which included agreements on: global human rights, food security, freedom of education, special procedures and mechanisms of global oversight, technical assistance, development rights and coercive measures.