King Norodom Sihamoni has issued a Royal Decree detailing the establishment and functioning of a judicial reform steering commission. 

Comprising 16 articles, the December 30 decree defines the organisational structure and duties of the commission, which will serve as a coordinating mechanism to transparently and efficiently advance the implementation of judicial reforms aligned with government policy. 

The primary objective is to fortify the rule of law and enhance the quality and efficiency of Cambodia’s judiciary.

The proclamation outlines the commission’s responsibilities, including leading, supporting, coordinating and promoting the implementation of reforms. Additionally, the body is mandated to initiate and propose strategic plans and reforms for government approval.

The decree also underscores the commission’s role in issuing necessary instructions and measures to ensure the effectiveness and efficiency of judicial reforms.

“This commission is tasked with reviewing and advising on draft laws and legal standards pertaining to the judiciary. As a coordinator, it will collaborate with ministries, institutions and national and international development partners to advance and bolster efforts in judicial reform,” the edict stated.

“The commission’s responsibility will include presenting progress work reports and proposing essential measures to address challenges for government approval,” it further explained.

The commission is to receive funding from the national budget under the Ministry of Justice’s framework.

Am Sam Ath, operations director of rights group LICADHO, said the Cambodian judiciary has faced past criticism for lacking the independence crucial to ensure the rule of law and justice. As a civil society organisation (CSO), he said he has consistently advocated for the government to expedite reforms, aiming for an independent court system that can restore public trust.

“When the judiciary secures the rule of law, justice in society and its independence, it ensures respect for human rights. To ensure effective system reform, it’s crucial for justice reforms and legal systems to meet international standards,” he said.

He added that having the royal decree outlining the organisation and functioning of the commission is a positive step, but genuine commitment to reform the legal and court systems will be the key to rebuilding trust.

The mandate specified that the commission comprises ministries and institutions related to the judicial sector. Justice minister Koeut Rith and Supreme Court president Chiv Keng will serve as co-chairs.

Commission members are to be drawn from the ministries of interior; economy and finance; civil service; commerce; post and telecommunications; information; as well as the Council of Ministers. 

Additionally, representation will include the Phnom Penh Municipal Court of Appeal, the Bar Association of the Kingdom of Cambodia (BAKC), the National Authority for Out-of-Court Mediation, and the Royal Academy for Justice of Cambodia.