Cambodia Marks 32nd Anniversary of 1993 Constitution, Citing Peace and Progress

PHNOM PENH, Cambodia (Sept.24, 2025) — Cambodian officials and analysts are commemorating the 32nd anniversary of the 1993 Constitution, describing it as a cornerstone of national stability, peace, and development following decades of civil conflict and the historic intervention of the United Nations.

The current and sixth constitution was adopted by the Constituent Assembly on Sept. 21, 1993, and officially promulgated by King Norodom Sihanouk through Royal Decree on Sept. 24, 1993. It consists of 16 chapters and 158 articles, and laid the legal foundation for Cambodia’s transition to a constitutional monarchy with a multi-party liberal democratic system.

The Constitution followed Cambodia’s first national election, held from May 23 to 28, 1993, and organized by the United Nations Transitional Authority in Cambodia (UNTAC).

The election marked a turning point in the country’s post-conflict recovery, paving the way for the establishment of a legitimate government and the restoration of national institutions.

Senate President Samdech Techo Hun Sen, who also serves as president of the Cambodian People’s Party (CPP), said in a Facebook post that the Paris Peace Agreement of 1991 laid the groundwork for Cambodia’s political transformation.

He emphasized that the Constitution remains the supreme law of the Kingdom, and that all laws and decisions made by state institutions must conform to its principles.

“September 24, 1993, marks the birth of the Constitution, which continues to guide Cambodia’s progress and protect its sovereignty,” Hun Sen wrote. “It is the legal backbone of our nation.”

CPP spokesperson Chea Thyrith called Constitution Day a national milestone, noting that the party has consistently upheld and defended the spirit of the Constitution.

“It is through this Constitution that Cambodia has enjoyed peace, stability, and development up to the present,” he said.

Yang Peou, secretary-general of the Royal Academy of Cambodia, echoed the significance of the anniversary, describing the 1993 Constitution as a symbol of unity and reconciliation.

“It marked the end of civil war and the beginning of a new era of peace and national stability,” he said.

While acknowledging that the Constitution has undergone several amendments and faced criticism over the years, Peou said it continues to play a vital role in maintaining peace, enabling economic growth, and strengthening democratic governance.

He also noted that Cambodia stands out as a rare success story where UN intervention led to free elections, the formation of a legitimate government, and long-term social and political stability — a contrast to many other post-conflict nations where similar efforts have faltered.

The Constitution’s anniversary comes at a time when Cambodia is navigating regional challenges and reaffirming its commitment to rule of law, democratic principles, and national sovereignty.