Cambodia Backs Global Push to End Death Penalty at Rome Justice Conference

ROME (Dec. 3, 2025) — Cambodia reaffirmed its commitment to abolishing the death penalty at the 15th International Conference of Ministers of Justice in Rome, joining a growing international movement to eliminate capital punishment under the theme “No Justice Without Life.”

Chin Malin, secretary of state at the Ministry of Justice, delivered Cambodia’s statement during the closing session on Dec.2, underscoring four priorities: abolishing the death penalty, supporting the global campaign against capital punishment, advancing domestic justice reforms and calling for broader international cooperation.

He was joined by Khlaok Dara, director general of international affairs and judicial development. Cambodia has not carried out executions for decades, reflecting a de facto moratorium, though capital punishment remains on the books for certain crimes.

The government has pledged to align its justice system with international human rights standards, strengthening judicial institutions, expanding access to legal services and promoting alternative sentencing for nonviolent offenses.

The Rome conference convened ministers, deputy prime ministers, foreign ministers and senior officials from around the world to share strategies on reducing reliance on capital punishment and advancing humane justice systems.

Globally, more than two-thirds of UN member states have abolished the death penalty in law or practice. Cambodia’s participation signals its alignment with these efforts and its commitment to reforms that balance accountability with the protection of human life.