PHNOM PENH, Cambodia (AP) – The newly established conscription law in Cambodia, which imposes severe penalties for military service evasion, is now in effect, as announced by Prime Minister Hun Manet on Monday. This legislation, mandating military service for young men, introduces penalties of up to five years in prison for those who fail to comply.
The law was signed on Saturday by Senate president Hun Sen, who served as the acting head of state while King Norodom Sihamoni is undergoing medical treatment for prostate cancer in China. The new conscription policy comes in response to the recent border conflicts with Thailand, which resulted in significant loss of life and displacement for many Cambodians.
Aimed at modernizing Cambodia's military service requirements, the new law replaces a 2006 statute that had never been implemented and was viewed as outdated. It stipulates that Cambodian males aged 18 to 25 are required to serve two years in military duty, while women have the option to volunteer. Notably, individuals who receive a summons for military service must report within 30 days, or they could be charged with evasion unless they provide valid justification.
Penalties for avoiding military service are structured differently based on the current state of the nation. During peacetime, evaders may face imprisonment ranging from six months to two years, alongside fines between $250 and $1,000. In contrast, the penalties intensify during wartime or in the event of a foreign attack, with imprisonment extending from two to five years, coupled with fines between $1,000 and $2,500.
Exemptions from military service are provided for specific groups, including monks, priests, individuals with disabilities, and those possessing specialized skills in science and technology. Upon completing their mandatory service, individuals will transition into reserve forces, where they remain until the age of 45.
In a recent address to lawmakers, Prime Minister Hun Manet emphasized that this new law serves as a vital foundation for instilling patriotism and a sense of national duty among Cambodian youth. He encouraged the younger generation to embrace their roles in protecting their country through military service.
