Over 200 representatives from the media including nearly 30 provincial journalists, government, international organizations, and civil society organizations participated in Cambodia’s Second Media Development Conference, held on December 19, 2024, in Phnom Penh. The event was organized by UNESCO in collaboration with the Ministry of Information and national media partners at the Sofitel Phnom Penh Phokeethra Hotel.
The conference was supported by the Media Development Working Group, which includes Cambodian Journalists Alliance Association (CamboJA), Cambodian Center for Independent Media (CCIM), Women’s Media Centre of Cambodia (WMC), Communication and Media Promotion Organization (CMPO), Department of Media and Communication (DMC), Cambodia Center for Human Rights (CCHR), International Media Support (IMS), BBC Media Action and DW Akademie. It was also participated by development partners and UN agencies such as: Embassy of France, Embassy of Japan, Embassy of the Federal Republic of Germany, British Embassy, USAID and OHCHR.
The theme for this year’s conference, Strengthening Freedom of Expression in the Digital Era, underscored the growing importance of ensuring a free and vibrant media environment amid rapid digital transformation. The conference, through its three interconnected themes provided a platform for dialogue on strategies and best practices to help Cambodia’s media thrive in the digital age.
The first session examined the evolving media landscape shaped by advancing technologies and new information consumption behaviors, presenting both opportunities and challenges. The panel discussion included the following speakers: H.E. Prak T. Amida, Under Secretary of State, Ministry of Information; Mr. Toby Mendel, Director of the Centre for Law and Democracy; Ms. Chhan Sokunthea, Executive Director of CCIM; Mr. San Putheary, Director of Broadcasting, Ministry of Information; Mr. Sek Sophorn, Lawyer.
The panel highlighted the key international principles and standards to be respected when regulating the information space. During the session, Mrs. Chhan Sokunthea, Executive Director of CCIM, emphasized the importance of inclusive and participatory approaches in amending the Press Law and any other policies concerning the media sector, calling for greater stakeholder engagement to ensure alignment with international standards.
©CamboJA
The second session engaged media and civil society organizations in discussions on media regulation, codes of conduct, and complaint systems, highlighting their critical role in upholding ethical journalism standards. Professional complaints systems were emphasized as valuable tools for enhancing professionalism and providing accessible recourse for citizens.
Speakers included, H.E Tep Asnarith, Under Secretary of State, Ministry of Information; Mr. Toby Mendel, Director of Centre for Law and Democracy; H.E Sles Alfin, Under Secretary of State, Ministry of Information; Mr. Ith Sothoeuth, Media Director of CCIM; Ms. Hang Samphors, Cambodian Female Journalists’ Network Leader.
The panel stressed the importance of quality journalism education, essential for nurturing skilled journalists as guardians of public trust, fostering professional news media, and supporting democracy. Ms. Hang Samphors, Cambodian Female Journalists’ Network Leader, stated, ” Professionalism and ethics among journalists are crucial, but they must be accompanied by a freer press environment. An open space for press freedom allows journalists to practice their job effectively, providing the public with factual, high-quality information to stay informed.”
In today’s digital era, while digital technologies and social media have made information more accessible, they have also increased the spread of misinformation and disinformation. The session also called for greater accountability from social media platforms and highlighted the role of professional journalists in verifying information and educating the public on digital, media, and information literacy to build resilience against online information disorder. The panel also emphasized the importance of establishing independent oversight bodies to ensure professionalism in journalism, aligned with international standards.
©CamboJA
Free and independent media are vital for informed societies and democracy. However, Cambodian media face financial instability, evolving business models, and competition from digital platforms and emerging technologies like AI, threatening their sustainability and ethical standards.
This panel explored solutions to support media viability, emphasizing innovation, creativity, and the use of digital tools and AI to create engaging, audience-centric content. Discussions also highlighted the need for journalist training to navigate the fast-evolving media landscape.
Speakers included H.E. Liv Sophanarith, Secretary of State, Ministry of Post and Telecommunications; H.E. Sles Alfin, Undersecretary of State, Ministry of Information; Mr. Prak Chanthul, CEO of Kiripost; Ms. Nini Cabaero, Media Business Advisor, Internews (Online); H.E. Phos Sovann, Director General, Ministry of Information; Mr. Toby Mendel, Director of the Centre for Law and Democracy.
The panelists also highlighted support measures, such as reduced licensing fees, tax exemptions, and free legal consultations for journalists, to sustain media independence and promote ethical standards in Cambodia’s rapidly evolving digital landscape.
Mr. Prak Chanthul stated, “Media houses need to invest in research and development to innovate and transition from print to digital, saving costs and generating revenue to stay financially viable. Without this, traditional media will continue to close, as we’ve seen recently in Cambodia.” He also highlighted Kiripost’s cautious use of AI in news production: “While we use AI tools to enhance efficiency, every piece of content is thoroughly reviewed by the editor-in-chief before publication to maintain accuracy and credibility.”
©CamboJA
In this opening remarks, Mr. Sardar Umar Alam, UNESCO Representative to Cambodia, emphasized the significance of the event, stating, “This conference is a crucial platform to discuss the state of media development, identify challenges, and propose solutions. Inclusivity and collaboration are essential for promoting ethical journalism, adapting to digital transformation, and strengthening frameworks like the Press Law.”
He also highlighted the United Nations’ declaration of the Pact for the Future 2024, emphasizing the digital compact’s call for an open, secure, and human-centered digital space rooted in human rights and the SDGs. “Addressing challenges such as misinformation, AI, and climate change requires robust, independent media to inform and empower communities. This year’s focus on freedom of expression in the digital age is timely, as only 30% of the population is digitally literate, and the media sector faces financial struggles. Strengthening the Press Law through an inclusive process is critical to protecting journalism, ensuring truth is freely spoken, and addressing challenges faced by journalists. UNESCO stands ready to support these efforts and to strengthen independent press councils for a sustainable media landscape in Cambodia.”
The Minister of Information, H.E. Neth Pheaktra, shared his commitment to revisiting the country current 1995 press law: “The Press Law will soon be open for discussion. I would like to thank UNESCO for its support in the press law analysis. It will serve as a foundation to align the law with both national priorities and international standards. It is essential that the amedned law is tailored to Cambodia’s unique culture, context, and demographics. Our ministry will collaborate with UNESCO to organize a consultation workshop to ensure that the amendments address the evolving global digital and media landscape.”
The Minister also highlighted the challenges faced by the traditional media sector, particularly in terms of financial sustainability amid the rapid rise of digital platforms. He emphasized the need for a strategic approach to ensure that traditional media outlets remain viable. Additionally, the Minister underscored the importance of building digital, media, and information literacy among the public to combat cybersecurity threats. “The Ministry of Information will work closely with UNESCO to promote digital, media, and information literacy across Cambodia. This is crucial for empowering citizens to navigate the digital world safely and responsibly, making them resilient to the rise of online misinformation and disinformation.” he said.
©AKP
In her closing remarks, Susanna Elmberger, Programme Officer for Human Rights, Democracy and Rule of Law at the Embassy of Sweden in Cambodia, reaffirmed Sweden’s commitment to supporting media development in Cambodia: “Sweden is proud to support this important initiative, organized by UNESCO and the Ministry of Information, in collaboration with media stakeholders in Cambodia. The platform provided by the Conference for dialogue, learning, and collaboration reaffirms the critical importance of freedom of expression and media development as cornerstones of democracy and sustainable development in the digital era. I also want to acknowledge the courage of journalists and media professionals who continue to uphold professionalism and transparency, even under challenging circumstances. Sweden has long championed press freedom and the fundamental right to freedom of expression, principles that are integral to our development cooperation efforts globally, including here in Cambodia.”
©UNESCO
A free, diverse, pluralistic, and independent media sector is essential for democratic governance, sustainable development, and fostering an open, inclusive society. This is reflected in Sustainable Development Goal 16 (Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions), which emphasizes the importance of media freedom, access to information, and the safety of journalists. Promoting ethical media and ensuring an environment conducive to freedom of expression are critical in advancing these goals.
One reporter from Kratie province highlighted that “Through this Conference, I learnt how to produce ethical reporting that will gain trust from the public, and use digital solutions to reach out to more audience.”
©CamboJA
The Second Media Development Conference provided a platform for learning, discussion, and collaboration among all media stakeholders, including the government, media organizations, journalists’ associations, academia, civil society, the private sector, and development partners. The aim was to advance media reforms and support the media sector in adapting to the digital era.
©AKP
This event is part of UNESCO’s broader efforts in Cambodia to promote and strengthen media development and freedom of expression, implemented in collaboration with national stakeholders, OHCHR, and with financial support from the Swedish International Development Agency.
The conference emphasized the need for continued collaboration from all relevant stakeholders to address the challenges facing Cambodia’s media sector. UNESCO, together with key relevant stakeholders, stressed the importance of collective efforts and the enhancement of ethical journalism and media sustainability, contributing to the advancement of media and the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals. UNESCO will continue to work with its partners to support media reforms and build capacity, especially in light of the digital transformation.
The conference was supported by the Media Development Working Group, which includes Cambodian Journalists Alliance Association (CamboJA), Cambodian Center for Independent Media (CCIM), Women’s Media Centre of Cambodia (WMC), Communication and Media Promotion Organization (CMPO), Department of Media and Communication (DMC), Cambodia Center for Human Rights (CCHR), International Media Support (IMS), BBC Media Action and DW Akademie. It was also participated by development partners and UN agencies such as: Embassy of France, Embassy of Japan, Embassy of the Federal Republic of Germany, British Embassy, USAID and OHCHR.
The theme for this year’s conference, Strengthening Freedom of Expression in the Digital Era, underscored the growing importance of ensuring a free and vibrant media environment amid rapid digital transformation. The conference, through its three interconnected themes provided a platform for dialogue on strategies and best practices to help Cambodia’s media thrive in the digital age.
Inclusive Approaches to Media Policy Reform and Press Law Amendments
The first session examined the evolving media landscape shaped by advancing technologies and new information consumption behaviors, presenting both opportunities and challenges. The panel discussion included the following speakers: H.E. Prak T. Amida, Under Secretary of State, Ministry of Information; Mr. Toby Mendel, Director of the Centre for Law and Democracy; Ms. Chhan Sokunthea, Executive Director of CCIM; Mr. San Putheary, Director of Broadcasting, Ministry of Information; Mr. Sek Sophorn, Lawyer.
The panel highlighted the key international principles and standards to be respected when regulating the information space. During the session, Mrs. Chhan Sokunthea, Executive Director of CCIM, emphasized the importance of inclusive and participatory approaches in amending the Press Law and any other policies concerning the media sector, calling for greater stakeholder engagement to ensure alignment with international standards.
©CamboJA
Strengthening Quality Journalism: Regulation, Education, and Press Freedom
The second session engaged media and civil society organizations in discussions on media regulation, codes of conduct, and complaint systems, highlighting their critical role in upholding ethical journalism standards. Professional complaints systems were emphasized as valuable tools for enhancing professionalism and providing accessible recourse for citizens.
Speakers included, H.E Tep Asnarith, Under Secretary of State, Ministry of Information; Mr. Toby Mendel, Director of Centre for Law and Democracy; H.E Sles Alfin, Under Secretary of State, Ministry of Information; Mr. Ith Sothoeuth, Media Director of CCIM; Ms. Hang Samphors, Cambodian Female Journalists’ Network Leader.
The panel stressed the importance of quality journalism education, essential for nurturing skilled journalists as guardians of public trust, fostering professional news media, and supporting democracy. Ms. Hang Samphors, Cambodian Female Journalists’ Network Leader, stated, ” Professionalism and ethics among journalists are crucial, but they must be accompanied by a freer press environment. An open space for press freedom allows journalists to practice their job effectively, providing the public with factual, high-quality information to stay informed.”
In today’s digital era, while digital technologies and social media have made information more accessible, they have also increased the spread of misinformation and disinformation. The session also called for greater accountability from social media platforms and highlighted the role of professional journalists in verifying information and educating the public on digital, media, and information literacy to build resilience against online information disorder. The panel also emphasized the importance of establishing independent oversight bodies to ensure professionalism in journalism, aligned with international standards.
©CamboJA
Securing Media Viability in the Digital Era: Innovations and Opportunities
Free and independent media are vital for informed societies and democracy. However, Cambodian media face financial instability, evolving business models, and competition from digital platforms and emerging technologies like AI, threatening their sustainability and ethical standards.
This panel explored solutions to support media viability, emphasizing innovation, creativity, and the use of digital tools and AI to create engaging, audience-centric content. Discussions also highlighted the need for journalist training to navigate the fast-evolving media landscape.
Speakers included H.E. Liv Sophanarith, Secretary of State, Ministry of Post and Telecommunications; H.E. Sles Alfin, Undersecretary of State, Ministry of Information; Mr. Prak Chanthul, CEO of Kiripost; Ms. Nini Cabaero, Media Business Advisor, Internews (Online); H.E. Phos Sovann, Director General, Ministry of Information; Mr. Toby Mendel, Director of the Centre for Law and Democracy.
The panelists also highlighted support measures, such as reduced licensing fees, tax exemptions, and free legal consultations for journalists, to sustain media independence and promote ethical standards in Cambodia’s rapidly evolving digital landscape.
Mr. Prak Chanthul stated, “Media houses need to invest in research and development to innovate and transition from print to digital, saving costs and generating revenue to stay financially viable. Without this, traditional media will continue to close, as we’ve seen recently in Cambodia.” He also highlighted Kiripost’s cautious use of AI in news production: “While we use AI tools to enhance efficiency, every piece of content is thoroughly reviewed by the editor-in-chief before publication to maintain accuracy and credibility.”
©CamboJA
In this opening remarks, Mr. Sardar Umar Alam, UNESCO Representative to Cambodia, emphasized the significance of the event, stating, “This conference is a crucial platform to discuss the state of media development, identify challenges, and propose solutions. Inclusivity and collaboration are essential for promoting ethical journalism, adapting to digital transformation, and strengthening frameworks like the Press Law.”
He also highlighted the United Nations’ declaration of the Pact for the Future 2024, emphasizing the digital compact’s call for an open, secure, and human-centered digital space rooted in human rights and the SDGs. “Addressing challenges such as misinformation, AI, and climate change requires robust, independent media to inform and empower communities. This year’s focus on freedom of expression in the digital age is timely, as only 30% of the population is digitally literate, and the media sector faces financial struggles. Strengthening the Press Law through an inclusive process is critical to protecting journalism, ensuring truth is freely spoken, and addressing challenges faced by journalists. UNESCO stands ready to support these efforts and to strengthen independent press councils for a sustainable media landscape in Cambodia.”
The Minister of Information, H.E. Neth Pheaktra, shared his commitment to revisiting the country current 1995 press law: “The Press Law will soon be open for discussion. I would like to thank UNESCO for its support in the press law analysis. It will serve as a foundation to align the law with both national priorities and international standards. It is essential that the amedned law is tailored to Cambodia’s unique culture, context, and demographics. Our ministry will collaborate with UNESCO to organize a consultation workshop to ensure that the amendments address the evolving global digital and media landscape.”
The Minister also highlighted the challenges faced by the traditional media sector, particularly in terms of financial sustainability amid the rapid rise of digital platforms. He emphasized the need for a strategic approach to ensure that traditional media outlets remain viable. Additionally, the Minister underscored the importance of building digital, media, and information literacy among the public to combat cybersecurity threats. “The Ministry of Information will work closely with UNESCO to promote digital, media, and information literacy across Cambodia. This is crucial for empowering citizens to navigate the digital world safely and responsibly, making them resilient to the rise of online misinformation and disinformation.” he said.
©AKP
In her closing remarks, Susanna Elmberger, Programme Officer for Human Rights, Democracy and Rule of Law at the Embassy of Sweden in Cambodia, reaffirmed Sweden’s commitment to supporting media development in Cambodia: “Sweden is proud to support this important initiative, organized by UNESCO and the Ministry of Information, in collaboration with media stakeholders in Cambodia. The platform provided by the Conference for dialogue, learning, and collaboration reaffirms the critical importance of freedom of expression and media development as cornerstones of democracy and sustainable development in the digital era. I also want to acknowledge the courage of journalists and media professionals who continue to uphold professionalism and transparency, even under challenging circumstances. Sweden has long championed press freedom and the fundamental right to freedom of expression, principles that are integral to our development cooperation efforts globally, including here in Cambodia.”
©UNESCO
A free, diverse, pluralistic, and independent media sector is essential for democratic governance, sustainable development, and fostering an open, inclusive society. This is reflected in Sustainable Development Goal 16 (Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions), which emphasizes the importance of media freedom, access to information, and the safety of journalists. Promoting ethical media and ensuring an environment conducive to freedom of expression are critical in advancing these goals.
One reporter from Kratie province highlighted that “Through this Conference, I learnt how to produce ethical reporting that will gain trust from the public, and use digital solutions to reach out to more audience.”
©CamboJA
The Second Media Development Conference provided a platform for learning, discussion, and collaboration among all media stakeholders, including the government, media organizations, journalists’ associations, academia, civil society, the private sector, and development partners. The aim was to advance media reforms and support the media sector in adapting to the digital era.
©AKP
This event is part of UNESCO’s broader efforts in Cambodia to promote and strengthen media development and freedom of expression, implemented in collaboration with national stakeholders, OHCHR, and with financial support from the Swedish International Development Agency.
The conference emphasized the need for continued collaboration from all relevant stakeholders to address the challenges facing Cambodia’s media sector. UNESCO, together with key relevant stakeholders, stressed the importance of collective efforts and the enhancement of ethical journalism and media sustainability, contributing to the advancement of media and the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals. UNESCO will continue to work with its partners to support media reforms and build capacity, especially in light of the digital transformation.