UN rights envoy concludes fact-finding mission on women, indigenous peoples in Cambodia

The United Nations Special Rapporteur on the situation of human rights in Cambodia, Rhona Smith, on Thursday ended her 10-day visit to the country in which she focused on the rights of women and indigenous peoples.

Speaking at a press conference here, Smith said during her mission, she met with Senate president Say Chhum, Parliament Vice President Nguon Nhel, Deputy Prime Minister and Interior Minister Sar Kheng as well as ministers of land management, justice, rural development, culture, environment, education, and women's affairs.

She also conferred with the diplomatic community, civil society representatives and other stakeholders. In addition, she undertook a field visit to northern Stung Treng and Preah Vihear provinces where she met with members of indigenous communities.

"During meetings with ministries and other stakeholders, I have been made aware of efforts towards improving the human rights situation in the country. In particular, I have learned more of the efforts being made to strengthen the functioning of the judiciary, preserve both indigenous and Khmer culture, protect national parks and address land issues," she said.

On the issue of women's rights, she said domestic violence against women remains a great concern that requires a multi-sectoral response.

For the rights of indigenous peoples, she praised the government's efforts to protect and preserve the traditional cultures of indigenous peoples.

She noted that there are still many unresolved land disputes in the indigenous communities that are affected by major development projects.

The expert will present her mission report to the Human Rights Council in September. Enditem