Cambodia/Vietnam: Increasing pressure on society

Radio Free Europe reported that despite all efforts to discuss it and to avoid the harshest consequences, Cambodia introduced a new law regulating NGOs on 13 July 2015. Daniel, persecution analyst for World Watch Research, relates: "Unfortunately, this news had to be expected as it reflects a broader regional trend, following other countries getting more and more restrictive such as Laos, Vietnam and Myanmar. Although the law had been discussed with some stakeholders, all complained that there was not enough time for full discussions. This shows how low civil society is valued in Cambodia. This was underscored by another chapter in a never-ending story: as Christian Montagnards are still pouring into the country from Vietnam, Cambodia set a sign on July 17, by repatriating 12 Montagnards to Vietnam. Allegedly, they returned voluntarily and not without Vietnam giving guarantees to the UNHCR representative that they will not be harassed or punished. The only question is who will be able to monitor such promises as Vietnam has closed the districts most affected to all external visitors."