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MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION (2024/2952(RSP))

On the Shrinking Space for Civil Society in Cambodia, in Particular the Case of the Labour Rights Organisation CENTRAL

B-10-2024-0201

on behalf of the S&D Group · Rapporteur: Yannis Maniatis, Francisco Assis, Marco Tarquinio

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✦ In short · AI summary of this text, generated 4 Sept 2026

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A resolution expressing deep concern over restrictions on civil society, trade unions, and human rights defenders in Cambodia, particularly the harassment and criminalisation of labour rights activists. It calls on Cambodia to stop investigating CENTRAL, drop charges against Khun Tharo and others, release activists, and uphold labour standards and freedom of association. It asks the Commission and member states to monitor Cambodia's EBA obligations and assess eligibility if violations persist.

Key points

  1. Expresses deep concern over escalating restrictions on civil society, trade unions, and human rights defenders in Cambodia, especially harassment and criminalisation of labour rights protectors.
  2. Calls on the Cambodian government to immediately cease its investigation into CENTRAL and drop all criminal charges against Khun Tharo, the Executive Director of Equitable Cambodia, and Mother Nature activists.
  3. Urges Cambodia to release activists serving baseless sentences and ensure civil society can operate without fear of reprisal or intimidation.
  4. Urges Cambodian authorities to uphold international labour standards and safeguard freedom of association, addressing abuses in CENTRAL's report.
  5. Emphasises the need for collaboration with civil society, trade unions, and international brands to foster a transparent, accountable, fair working environment.
  6. Calls on the European Commission and EU Member States to monitor Cambodia's obligations under the EBA scheme and assess eligibility if violations persist.

Who is affected

  • Civil society organisations, trade unions, and human rights defenders in Cambodia, particularly labour rights groups like CENTRAL.
  • Cambodian government and authorities, who are called on to cease investigations, drop charges, release activists, and uphold labour standards.
  • European Commission and EU Member States, asked to monitor Cambodia's EBA compliance.