Phnom Penh: On Wednesday, December 6, 2023, H.E Sok Buntha, Secretary of State and representative of the Ministry of Social Affairs, Veterans, and Youth Rehabilitation, participated in the National Consultative Workshop for Universal Periodic Review (UPR). The day-long workshop, conducted in collaboration with the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights in Cambodia, aimed to gather comments and input on Cambodia’s fourth-round draft UPR Report. The event was organized to align with the decisions of the Human Rights Council, emphasizing extensive consultations, particularly with civil society.
The workshop served as a platform for the government to compile a national report after engaging in a consultation process with various stakeholders. Attendees included representatives from ministries, institutions, relevant units, government officials, national and international development partners, technical experts, and civil society. H.E Keo Remy, Senior Minister and Chairman of the Cambodian Human Rights Committee, presided over the workshop at the Cambodiana Hotel in Phnom Penh.
Highlighting the significance of the Universal Periodic Review, H.E Keo Remy noted that it is the UN Human Rights Council’s sole mechanism involving the participation of 193 member states. The review occurs every four and a half or five years, aiming to enhance human rights situations globally by sharing best practices and providing technical assistance among states and partners. Additionally, it ensures that human rights conditions in all countries are equally discussed in the presence of other states.
The results of the workshop are as follows:
- Obtained additional input from ministries, institutions, relevant units, and civil society.
- Compiled a report that underscores the endeavors and contributions of all stakeholders in promoting and safeguarding human rights in Cambodia.
