Cambodia Highlights Humanitarian Approach to Anti-Scam Operations
Cambodia Highlights Humanitarian Approach to Anti-Scam Operations
PHNOM PENH, 29 July 2026 — Cambodia has reaffirmed its commitment to working with international partners to combat cyber-enabled fraud, while emphasizing humanitarian protection for victims of scam operations, during a meeting between Senior Minister Chhay Sinarith and Thomas Andrews, the United Nations Special Rapporteur on the situation of human rights in Cambodia.
The meeting took place on Wednesday, during which Chhay Sinarith, who heads the Secretariat of Cambodia’s Commission for Combating Cyber Fraud, briefed Andrews on the background and evolution of cyber-enabled scam operations.
According to the Cambodian side, Chhay Sinarith described cyber fraud as a global crisis affecting countries worldwide and said the Royal Government is committed to dismantling scam networks through law enforcement operations while safeguarding the safety and well-being of both Cambodian and foreign nationals.
He stressed that strict adherence to legal procedures is essential to ensuring the success of anti-scam operations, while humanitarian considerations must remain an integral part of enforcement efforts to minimize physical and psychological harm to those affected.
Chhay Sinarith said Cambodia has adopted a humanitarian approach by providing assistance and support to foreign nationals who were allegedly lured or trafficked into the country to work in online scam operations. He added that Cambodian authorities have worked closely with foreign embassies to facilitate the repatriation of those victims to their home countries.
He also reaffirmed Cambodia’s willingness to strengthen cooperation with governments and international organizations to prevent more people around the world from falling victim to cyber scam syndicates.
In response, Andrews said he was familiar with the establishment and mandate of Cambodia’s Commission for Combating Cyber Fraud and acknowledged its role in the government’s efforts to eliminate cyber-enabled crime.
According to the Cambodian statement, the UN Special Rapporteur also expressed interest in learning more about the current situation and the outcomes of Cambodia’s anti-scam campaign, and said he hoped both sides would continue exchanging views on the issue in the future.
The meeting was part of ongoing discussions between Cambodian authorities and the United Nations on issues related to cybercrime and human rights. The Cambodian government’s account reflects its position on the discussions.
