Cambodia Begins Implementing Conscription on November 9: First 5,000 Selected Men Called Up, 2026 Quota Capped at 10,000
PHNOM PENH — Cambodia began implementing its military service law on November 9, with the first training programme for young recruits starting that day. November 9 is Cambodia's Independence Day and also marks the founding of the Royal Cambodian Armed Forces. Prime Minister Hun Manet announced the date on October 24 at the Multinational Peacekeeping Training Centre in Kampong Speu province, saying the day would mark the beginning of the implementation of the military conscription law to strengthen the armed forces.
According to Agence Kampuchea Presse, Hun Manet said Cambodia would continue recruiting young people for military service in phases from that date onward, based on the actual needs of the armed forces. He said nearly 15,000 young people had submitted applications to volunteer for military service in the preceding 13 days, and he welcomed their commitment.
Cambodian media reported that the National Military Service Committee, chaired by Deputy Prime Minister and Defence Minister Tea Seiha, on October 29 selected the first 5,000 men from among the applicants and called them to assemble on November 4 for medical and fitness examinations. The quota for 2026 is capped at 10,000 under Sub-decree 230, signed on October 27, so the first intake fills half the places, with a further 5,000 to be selected.
Cambodia's Law on Military Service entered into force on May 23, 2026, and consists of eight chapters and 20 articles. Under the law as described by Cambodian media, Cambodian men aged 18 to 25 must complete 24 months of service, which may be extended by up to six months when necessary. Service remains voluntary for women, and exemptions apply to Buddhist monks, clergy, people with disabilities and senior specialists on vital national missions.
(Source: Agence Kampuchea Presse)
Source: Agence Kampuchea Presse
Published by GSM · USA (original Chinese edition)
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