This year, the global commemoration of World Press Freedom Day focuses on the profound impact of Artificial Intelligence (AI) on journalism and media, under the theme: “Reporting in the Brave New World – The Impact of Artificial Intelligence on Press Freedom and the Media.”
However, for Cambodian civil society organizations, human rights defenders, and media rights advocates, the theme “Protecting Cambodia’s Independent Media” carries a more urgent and sobering significance, reflecting a harsh reality in which independent media is increasingly subjected to repression and restrictions.
On May 2, 2024, Cambodian civil society organizations, media associations, media outlets, and development partners jointly organized an event to commemorate the 32nd anniversary of World Press Freedom Day. The event brought together more than 100 participants, including journalists, civil society representatives, youth, and other stakeholders.
Cambodian and international civil society organizations, human rights defenders, and media rights advocates have expressed deep concern over the increasing threats to the country’s remaining independent media. In addition to a wide range of challenges imposed by the government and powerful actors—such as legal harassment, intimidation, arrests, arbitrary license revocations, and censorship—independent media outlets are now also grappling with a significant new obstacle: funding cuts.
Prak Chan Thul, Board Director of Cambodia, stated, “The struggle for a free and independent media in Cambodia is a struggle for the very soul of a democratic society. It is a fight worth fighting, and with your support, we believe we can forge light in the shadows and build a future where information truly empowers every citizen.”
In its latest report released just ahead of World Press Freedom Day, Reporters Without Borders (RSF) ranked Cambodia 161st out of 180 countries in the 2025 World Press Freedom Index—dropping (https://rsf.org/en/index) further from its 2024 ranking of 151. The ranking reflects the continued deterioration of the country’s media landscape.
