PHNOM PENH – Prime Minister Hun Manet has reaffirmed the government's commitment to combatting human trafficking and cross-border crimes. In light of recent cases of fake news spreading about human trafficking, he also called on the public to protect the country's reputation on the issue.

“Fake news doesn't only affect human trafficking operations but also Cambodia's reputation and all sectors,” Manet stated on December 12 at celebrations to commemorate the National Day of Anti-Human Trafficking.

He acknowledged that fake news has been a challenge for the country's reputation and that some international assessments of Cambodia's human trafficking situation have been inaccurate and unfair.

However, Manet emphasized that Cambodia is not denying the existence of human trafficking or other security issues.

“That is why we are trying to strengthen our law enforcement mechanisms,” he said. “We need to admit that we have problems with human trafficking and resolve them firmly. We cannot hide it or pretend it doesn't exist.”

This year the National Day of Anti-Human Trafficking is celebrated under the theme ‘Cambodia stands strong against all forms of human trafficking in the digital age.’

The prime minister reiterated the government’s promise to fight cross-border human trafficking and digital slavery, a serious issue worldwide. He praised the Interior Ministry and all police for their hard work in stopping and preventing human trafficking.

“The Cambodian government is dedicated to fighting all kinds of cross-border crime, especially human trafficking. We’ll keep strengthening prevention, cracking down on criminals, and upholding human rights,’ Manet said.

The prime minister urged all officials and the military to stay alert and track criminal activities. He also called for heightened vigilance along the border and in all areas to stop anything that could lead to human trafficking and other harmful acts.

Originally written in Khmer for ThmeyThmey, this story was translated by Meng Seavmey for Cambodianess.