AKP Phnom Penh, April 26, 2026 --

Cambodian Prime Minister Samdech Moha Borvor Thipadei Hun Manet emphasised that peace is both difficult to achieve and even harder to maintain, calling for greater national strength in the face of an increasingly uncertain global landscape.

Speaking at a gathering with representatives from trade unions, informal economy workers, and education associations at Koh Pich on Sunday morning to mark the 140th Anniversary of International Labour Day (May 1), Samdech Thipadei Hun Manet highlighted the value of peace that Cambodia currently enjoys, while warning uncertain global landscape.

“Peace is a tremendous achievement that we have today,” he said. “But do we realise that peace is hard to find and hard to sustain. In a changing global context, to preserve peace, we must be strong. No one else will come to protect us. Strength in national defence and the economy is essential.” 

His remarks come shortly after the Royal Government approved a draft law on military conscription on April 23, 2026. The proposed legislation would require Cambodian youth aged 18 to 25 to fulfill military service, while participation for women would remain voluntary.

The draft law consists of 8 chapters and 20 articles, aiming to implement Article 49 (new) of the Constitution. It is intended to contribute to national development and defence, while also fostering patriotism among young citizens.

According to the Prime Minister, military service will not only strengthen national defence but also instill discipline, ethics, teamwork, and a sense of national pride among youth. He added that those who complete their service may receive advantages in employment opportunities and access to further training.

Samdech Thipadei Hun Manet stressed that the conscription law is part of a broader effort to reinforce Cambodia’s resilience as the global environment becomes more unpredictable.

By Heng Panha