Cambodia to Launch Military Conscription in 2026 Amid Border Tensions

Report by “Safarti Tarjuman” International News Desk

PHNOM PENH — Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet has announced that the country will begin enforcing military conscription in 2026, reviving a long-dormant law to address security challenges as border tensions with Thailand intensify.

Speaking during a military ceremony in Kampong Chhnang province, Hun Manet confirmed that the long-dormant 2006 conscription law will finally be enforced to boost the country’s defense capabilities. Under the law, Cambodians aged 18 to 30 will be required to serve, although military service will remain voluntary for women.

“The decision reflects our firm commitment to strengthening Cambodia’s armed forces,” said Hun Manet, who wore his full military uniform as a four-star general while addressing troops. “A conscripted military is not only more disciplined but also ensures long-term defense readiness.”

The law had remained inactive for nearly two decades. But the prime minister emphasized that Cambodia’s evolving security environment now necessitates a stronger, more structured force.

The decision follows a deadly border incident on May 28, in which a Cambodian soldier was killed in a disputed territory along the Thai-Cambodian border. Although both governments have pledged to de-escalate, rhetoric and retaliatory measures have kept the situation tense.

Complicating matters further, Thai Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra was suspended earlier this month following backlash over a leaked call with Cambodia’s former prime minister Hun Sen. The diplomatic fallout has further strained bilateral ties and inflamed public opinion in both countries.

According to the CIA World Factbook, Cambodia’s armed forces number around 200,000 personnel, including military police, while Thailand maintains a larger force of approximately 350,000 active-duty troops.

Thailand, meanwhile, already operates a lottery-based conscription system for men at age 20, reinforcing its readiness in the face of mounting regional challenges.

By activating conscription, Cambodia signals a stronger national security posture and a more assertive role in regional defense dynamics.

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