Every nation is unique, and each has its own set of laws. Sometimes these laws seem absurd, and other times they highlight essential cultural values that may differ from your own. Nonetheless, following these laws is required. So, here are some Cambodian laws that you should be aware of before visiting the country.
LOCAL LAWS AND CUSTOMS IN CAMBODIA
If you are detained and found guilty of a crime in Cambodia, you can expect to spend a long time in prison. Pre-trial detainment can also last for several months.
Cambodia's legal system is unpredictable, opaque, and susceptible to intervention from influential political and business objectives.
Cambodian prisons have extremely poor and overpopulated situations. Prison health institutions are also despicable.
Child sexual abuse is a serious offence. The Cambodian government is committed to prosecuting travelling child sex offenders.
Don't experiment with drugs of any kind. Possession, distribution, or manufacture of drugs, including Class C, carries severe penalties. Drugs have also been blamed for several deaths among foreign tourists to Cambodia. These are thought to be the consequence of purification issues or adulteration by unidentified substances.
Photographs should never be taken in or near airports or military bases. Before photographing people, especially monks and other religious figures, obtain permission first.
The Cambodian government has issued a code of conduct for tourists to Angkor Wat and other religious sites, which includes a dress code. Skirts or shorts above the knee, as well as tops that expose bare shoulders, are not appropriate. If you do not stay true to the dress code, you may be denied entry to the sites.
In Cambodia, there are no legal constraints on same-sex sexual activity or the organisation of LGBT events, but public opinion is mixed. There is no legal security against discriminatory practices based on sexual orientation. The LGBT community is becoming more noticeable, thanks in part to the efforts of gay clubs, club nights, and some human rights organisations.
All Cambodian businesses must follow Cambodian laws regarding registration, taxation, and labour law. It is your obligation as a business owner to make sure that all necessities for registering and operating a commercial company are met. This section contains all of the essential knowledge, such as road maps and sample documents, to help you register and legally operate a company in the Kingdom of Cambodia. It helps you comprehend the standards, licences, taxes, legal compliance, and import and export processes that are necessary for your sort of business.
SOME OTHER LAWS IN CAMBODIA
It is illegal in Cambodia to:
- criticise or offend the King or the monarchy, which includes through the internet and social media
- Lie to police, including when filing an insurance claim, such as trying to report a crime that did not occur or telling lies about the situation of an incident.
- be topless or naked in public or at sacred sites such as Angkor Wat
- possess or create pornographic material for personal use, including on mobile phones, cameras, or computers
- without a permit, purchase or acquire cultural or ancient relics
- Drones may not be flown in certain regions without a permit. These areas include Phnom Penh, the Angkor Archaeological Park in Siem Reap, and other sensitive areas. Seek permission from the local municipality.
- without authorization, hunt wildlife
- Trafficking wildlife
- work without a current work permit
SOME LOCAL CUSTOMS IN CAMBODIA
- Cambodian officials enforce 'modesty' laws at religiously significant sites like Angkor Wat. Dress appropriately, concealing your knees and shoulders. You won't be able to enter if you don't.
- Take no photographs of individuals without their approval, particularly monks and other religious figures. It's culturally insensitive.
- Take photos away from sensitive areas, such as:
- military assets or military personnel
- transportation facilities
- government structures
SOME SAFETY GUIDELINES IN CAMBODIA
- Snatch-and-grab crimes are frequent against tourists. Thieves frequently ride motorcycles and attack pedestrians or individuals in open taxis. Carry no bags that are easy to steal. Walk away from the curb, bag in hand, to the opposite side of the street. Hotel room theft and luggage theft on buses are both common occurrences. Keep an eye on your possessions at all times. Scams, credit card fraud, and ATM fraud are all common occurrences. Before using an ATM, look for card-skimming equipment.
- In tourist hotspots, sexual assault takes place. In nightclubs, bars, and taxis, hold with people you can trust. Travel alone at night, and only in well-lit public areas. Rather than motorcycle taxis or tuk-tuks, use taxis requested through ride-hailing apps.
- Many Cambodians own firearms. Gun crime, violent squabbles, and shootouts are all too frequent.
- Be wary of strangers' invitations. Never transport packages or luggage for others.
- Protest movements can become violent. Large public gatherings should be avoided. Foreigners engaged in protests may be deported by officials.
- During the wet season, severe storms and flooding are possible (July to November). These can cause service and travel disruptions, such as on the Mekong River. For the most up-to-date information, contact your tour operator.
CONCLUSION
These were the local laws of Cambodia that one must know before visiting the country. To know more information about Cambodia, visit the Cambodia visa website.
