Resolutions condemning political oppression and encouraging free and fair elections in Cambodia

194th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by Shirley Arriaga and 5 co-sponsors

Bill H 3851 condemns political oppression in Cambodia, urging U.S. leaders to support democracy and human rights, benefiting Cambodian citizens and their electoral rights.

Hearing rescheduled to 11/13/2025 from 01:00 PM-03:50 PM in B-1 and Virtual Hearing updated to New End Time

Purpose and Intent

Bill H 3851, introduced in the Massachusetts General Court on February 27, 2025, aims to condemn the ongoing political oppression in Cambodia and to advocate for free and fair elections in the country. The resolution underscores the importance of democratic principles and human rights, particularly in light of the historical context established by the Paris Peace Accords of 1991.

Key Provisions

The resolution includes several significant points:

Condemnation of Political Oppression: It highlights the authoritarian rule of Prime Minister Hun Sen, who has been in power since 1985, and his government's systematic efforts to suppress opposition and consolidate power.

Call for Action: The resolution urges the U.S. Congress and the President to support legislation that promotes democracy in Cambodia, specifically referencing the Cambodia Democracy Act of 2019 and the Cambodian Trade Act of 2019.

Support for Human Rights: It calls for the adoption of recommendations from the United Nations Special Rapporteur on Human Rights in Cambodia to enhance democratic governance and protect human rights.

Recognition of Cambodian Americans: The resolution acknowledges the contributions of the Cambodian American community in Massachusetts, many of whom fled oppressive conditions in their home country.

Affected Parties

The resolution primarily addresses:

The Cambodian Government: It directly critiques the actions of the ruling Cambodia People's Party and Prime Minister Hun Sen.

Cambodian Citizens: The resolution advocates for the rights of Cambodian citizens to participate in free and fair elections, which have been compromised by government actions.

U.S. Legislators and Officials: It calls upon U.S. leaders to take a stand against political oppression and support democratic reforms in Cambodia.

Procedural Aspects

Hearing Schedule: A hearing for Bill H 3851 has been rescheduled to November 13, 2025, from 1:00 PM to 3:50 PM, with a virtual component. This hearing is crucial for discussing the resolution's implications and garnering support.

Legislative Process: The bill was referred to the committee on Veterans and Federal Affairs upon its introduction and has received concurrence from the Senate.

Conclusion

Bill H 3851 serves as a formal expression of Massachusetts' commitment to advocating for democracy and human rights in Cambodia. By condemning political oppression and encouraging legislative support at the federal level, the resolution aims to foster a more democratic environment in Cambodia, benefiting its citizens and reinforcing the values of liberty and human rights.

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