PHNOM PENH: The Ministry of Interior accused some local associations and NGOs of failing to fulfill their obligations under the Law on Associations and Non-Governmental Organizations and says that they must respond to notices that have been sent to them to ensure they are adhering to regulations.

According to the announcement issued on January 11, there are currently 6,279 associations and NGOs (2,747 associations and 3,532 NGOs) registered and maintained by the Ministry of Interior. It noted that they can act freely in accordance with the laws and regulations of Cambodia.

According to the Ministry of Interior, the associations and NGOs has been active in many areas across the country, with a number of them fulfilling their obligations and others failing to do so, specifically in regards to legal documentation. It said it has already issued two notices to warn the organizations.

The Ministry of Interior is once again reminding organizations to fulfill their obligations to strengthen the effectiveness of laws and regulations and to contribute to good governance, protect the public interest, and strengthen cooperation in partnership between NGOs and public authorities.

Although the Ministry was not clear about what specific obligations must be fulfilled, it said that it hopes and believes that local associations and NGOs that have filed and registered with the Ministry of Interior will cooperate with the announcement in the spirit of promoting democracy, strengthening the rule of law in Cambodia.

Failure to comply with the Ministry’s notification will result in legal action against the NGOs and local associations.