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International Law in Cambodia

Cambodia's Approach to International Law

According to a 2007 decision of the Constitutional Council, international law is considered a source of Cambodian law. All international treaties and conventions can become Cambodian law after a vote of approval by the National Assembly and the Senate and signature and ratification by the King. Based on this text, one can argue that Cambodia adopts a dualist approach because all international treaties and conventions require approval from the Cambodian Parliament. However, Article 31 of the Constitution states the Kingdom of Cambodia shall recognize and respect human rights as stipulated in the United Nations Charter, the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, the covenants and conventions related to human rights, women’s and children’s rights. Based on this text, it seems that Cambodia adopts a monist approach because the Constitution recognizes all these international instruments.

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