Introduction - IJNL Vol. 13 Iss. 1 and 2-Legal Framework of NGOs in Cambodia

Introduction - IJNL Vol. 13 Iss. 1 and 2: "Legal Framework of NGOs in Cambodia
By Ke Bunthoeurn*

Introduction

Cambodian civil society is a new phenomenon, a result of the Paris Peace Accord of 1991 and the arrival of international peacekeeping forces. During the Transitional Authority in Cambodia (UNTAC) period between 1992 and 1993, many local groups, including political parties, Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs), and single-interest groups were established, most of them concentrating on human rights, democracy, gender equality, election, and relief work. Since then the Cambodian civil society has proliferated and consolidated, creating a new political sector. Whereas the main civil society “actors” are the Cambodian NGOs, there are also other important civil society contributors, including labor unions, community-based organizations (CBOs), professional associations, and student groups. They aim to represent through strengthening and channeling the voice of the people or advocating for the people’s demands and needs."