Cambodian Senate passes UNCLOS bill, bolstering maritime governance

PHNOM PENH, Jan 21, 2026 (KPT) — Cambodia’s Senate on Wednesday unanimously passed a draft law on the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), marking a key step in strengthening the country’s maritime legal framework and international cooperation at sea.

The extraordinary plenary session of the Senate’s fifth mandate, chaired by First Vice President Ouch Borith, saw all 58 senators present vote in favor of the three article bill without amendments. The decision followed the National Assembly’s approval on January 16, when the measure passed with 114 votes in favor.

Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Prak Sokhonn provided clarifications during the session, while Senate Legislation and Justice Commission Chairwoman Chan Sotheavy presented review findings.

UNCLOS defines maritime boundaries, freedom of navigation and the rights and obligations of state parties in the use of oceans. It also sets guidelines on commerce, environmental protection, marine resources and dispute settlement.

Officials said accession would give Cambodia a complete legal framework for maritime affairs, strengthen protections over its marine areas, support sustainable resource use and enhance its role in global maritime governance.

Cambodia signed UNCLOS in 1983 but is the last ASEAN member yet to ratify.