Ahead of the December 21 Cambodia Editors Forum, Prime Minister Hun Manet has released a strong statement about the need for responsible journalism.

“Cambodia’s government requires a strong, responsible and honest media industry, along with journalists who dare to speak the truth and provide constructive criticism. This is essential for reflecting the realities of society and avoiding the dissemination of one-sided or fake news,” he said.

The theme for this year’s forum will be “Journalistic Professionalism and Expression”.

In his three-page statement, Manet praised the media outlets that have contributed to spreading accurate information about Cambodia. He cited examples such as the Funan Techo Canal project, the Cambodia-Laos-Vietnam Development Triangle, the promotion of Cambodia’s tourism potential and various cultural events.

“At all stages, the Royal Government of Cambodia has consistently prioritised the promotion of press freedom and freedom of expression, in accordance with the Constitution of the Kingdom of Cambodia and the Press Law,” added the prime minister.

However, he also pointed out the continued misuse of freedom of expression beyond the boundaries of the law, warning that it caused harm to public order and negatively impacted the people of the Kingdom. He urged media outlets not to misuse their press rights in ways that harm the dignity of others, or disrupt social norms, public order or national security.

The prime minister emphasised the government’s commitment to addressing issues such as corruption, legal and social justice reforms, public administration reforms, and the promotion of democracy and human rights. These efforts aim to build a society based on justice, peace and sustainable development, reflecting the aspirations and vision of the government, he added.

He encouraged the media to collaborate in addressing violations of ethical journalism, fake news and misleading opinions that could poison society, promote insults, incite animosity or create division. Additionally, he called on the media to participate in maintaining peace, fostering national development and strengthening democracy.

Beyond disseminating government policies, Manet expressed a desire for the media to act as a “mirror reflecting societal realities, including weaknesses, so the government can address issues effectively”.

He also requested that media outlets educate the public on measures to prevent traffic accidents, the dangers of drug use and human trafficking. He stressed that all reporting must adhere to journalistic ethics, balance information and avoid content that damages national interests or public trust.

The Cambodia Editors Forum will be addressed by Minister of Information Neth Pheaktra, alongside more than 100 leaders and representatives of media organisations.

Nop Vy, executive director of the Cambodian Journalists Alliance Association (CamboJA), noted that in addition to the content addressed in the prime minister’s message, the government should take concrete measures to improve the space for independent media institutions, which he believes is shrinking. Furthermore, he emphasised that attacks on journalists should be prosecuted according to legal standards, with perpetrators unable to act with impunity.

He also encouraged the acceleration of the implementation of media-related policies, such as amending the Press Law and adopting the Access to Information Law.

“An even more important issue is the safety of journalists. Recently, a journalist in Siem Reap province was shot and killed because he had reported extensively on crimes involving illegal logging in indigenous communities,” he added.

He continued, saying that journalists should not lose their lives for doing their job and that if any disputes arise, the courts should use the Press Law to resolve them.

The Club of Cambodian Journalists, which is organising the event, noted that some journalists still fail to adhere to journalistic standards and ethical practices, which often leads to legal consequences and damages the overall media sector in Cambodia. This week event will put this issue firmly in focus, it added.