Phnom Penh, July 1, 2024 – Independent media must not be merely a topic of conversation but should be objectively measured. In Cambodia today, all actors, both public and private, who adhere to professional ethics and integrity principles contribute significantly to the development of media and the promotion of freedom of expression and the press. Approximately 80 percent of journalists who participated in the 2024 survey on press freedom in Cambodia reported that they felt entirely free to pursue journalism with ease, security, and independence, gathering information from various sources and disseminating it freely. This statement was made by a spokesman for the Ministry of Information in response to a few comments expressing concern about the decline of independent media.
Tep Asarith, Spokesman for the Ministry of Information, explained that the Ministry's 2023 data shows Cambodia now has more than 2,000 media outlets and about 10,000 journalists working in both traditional and modern media. They perform their duties of collecting, producing, and disseminating information in all forms, reporting freely, safely, professionally, and transparently, earning the trust and support of the public. These activities have ensured that people across the country have access to quality and safe information, providing accurate details from all perspectives and broadening knowledge in various societal areas according to daily needs, supporting informed decisions to improve living standards.
In 2024, the Ministry of Information released the "Report on the Status of Press Freedom in Cambodia," following rigorous research based on recognized scientific methods, involving journalists nationwide, key individuals, and media representatives. This study has been praised widely, including by leaders in the legislature and government. The results showed that 79.8% of respondents believed that press freedom in Cambodia was good and rich in both traditional and modern media.
Tep Asarith emphasized the importance of this report, stating that through this study, Cambodia has demonstrated its commitment to developing an environmentally friendly information sector. This study was conducted by Cambodia itself, with participation from all journalists and media stakeholders. He questioned the validity of some claims about the lack of independent press, suggesting that these might be excuses to support different agendas, ignoring the real improvements in press freedom in Cambodia and the efforts of the Royal Government and the Ministry of Information.
Addressing concerns about press freedom, he noted that difficulties faced by the media are not unique to Cambodia but are common throughout the region due to technological advancements and the digital revolution's impact. The closure or suspension of some media outlets is part of this global trend.
The Ministry of Information called on all media units and journalists to uphold professional ethics, strengthen their roles and responsibilities, respect media laws, and maintain good relationships with information sources, including spokespersons from various ministries, institutions, authorities, and other parties. Journalists should fulfill their duties within the legal framework and not exceed their roles. Additionally, media units need to adapt to digital evolution, refine their professional skills, and ensure they provide factual, quality, comprehensive, clear, and balanced information. This will help maintain public trust and support the role of media as the fourth estate in society, contributing to peace and sustainable development in Cambodia.
