PHNOM PENH, CAMBODIA — A law requiring Cambodian men aged 18 to 25 to serve in the army for two years has received cabinet approval following two deadly wars with neighboring Thailand last year.
A government spokesman said on Friday that the new draft law on recruitment would replace an existing law from 2006 that was never implemented and no longer addresses current and future needs.
The maximum call-up age specified in the existing law is 30 years. Women will be allowed to serve on a voluntary basis.
Spokesman Pen Bona said the draft law, consisting of eight chapters and 20 articles, was adopted at a cabinet meeting on Thursday.
Fighting broke out twice last year between Cambodia and Thailand over disputed claims to territory along their shared border.
Millions of people were displaced in both countries and approximately 100 Cambodian soldiers and civilians lost their lives. There has been no new fighting since december armisticeHowever, tension still persists.
A government statement described military service as an essential duty and a great honor that allows Cambodians to contribute to national development and defend the motherland.
Prime Minister Hun Manet In July last year, when relations with Thailand were deteriorating, it was said that Cambodia would implement conscription this year. He said troops joining through recruitment are more effective and professional than voluntary forces, and recruitment would be used to bridge the shortage and upgrade military capabilities.
The legislation will be sent to the National Assembly and Senate for approval and will become law once King Norodom Sihamoni signs it.
