LICADHO will not be able to conduct activities planned in 18 prisons for International Human Rights Day (IHRD) on December 10, 2015 due to prohibitive written conditions set by the General Department of Prisons (GDP).

The Cambodian prison system is still plagued by ongoing, systematic abuse, discrimination, exploitation and corruption. For most inmates, cash flow dictates conditions of detention, treatment, family visits and access to basic needs such as food, water, daylight and fresh air. Levels of pre-trial detention are high, particularly amongst women and juveniles and there are many documented cases of unlawful detention and long waits for appeal hearings.

For the past 20 years, on IHRD, LICADHO has provided small packages of extra food to the prison population and entertainment such as games, traditional dancing and shows performed by the prisoners themselves as well as speeches on the importance and universality of fundamental human rights.

But this year, restrictions imposed by the GDP have rendered LICADHO’s special IHRD prison activities meaningless, marginalizing prisoners even more by precluding them from celebrating this important event which is meant for all Cambodians. This marks the second time in 2015 that LICADHO has been forced to cancel such activities.

In March, LICADHO cancelled its prison activities for International Women’s Day (IWD) for the first time in over 15 years due to restrictions prohibiting any form of entertainment or event and prohibiting LICADHO from directly delivering care packages to each prisoner. Subsequently, it appeared that the restrictions may have only been temporary as, no such restrictions were imposed on LICADHO’s prison activities for International Children’s Day on June 1, 2015.

Under the current prohibition on any form of activity within the prison, there are no guarantees that prisoners would get the additional out-of-cell time that is so valued. Moreover, prohibition on directly delivering care packages prevents LICADHO from ensuring that prisoners actually receive the full care packages.

No reasons have been given to explain why these restrictions are now being imposed.

“These restrictions typify the sad state of affairs in Cambodia at the moment,” said Naly Pilorge, LICADHO Director. “A 20 year tradition of providing an opportunity for prisoners to celebrate IHRD, many of whom are still awaiting trial, is being blocked and for what?”

The needless restriction of these activities now comes squarely within the context of the recently enacted Law on Associations and Non-Governmental Organizations (LANGO), adding to deeper concerns of a government that appears increasingly intent on repressing rather than assisting Cambodia’s civil society.

For more information, please contact:
▪ Mr. Am Sam Ath, LICADHO Technical Coordinator, 012 327 770
▪ Ms. Naly Pilorge, LICADHO Director, 012 803 650

PDF: Download full statement in English - Download full statement in Khmer
MP3: Listen to audio version in Khmer