Cambodia to mandate military service from 2026

By VNA July 16, 2025 | 04:17 pm PT

In this photo released by Agence Kampuchea Press (AKP), Cambodian troop perform during a ceremony to put in used the military building in northern Kampong Chhnang province, July 14, 2025. Photo by AP

Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet has announced that the country will begin enforcing its long-dormant compulsory military service law starting in 2026.

Speaking at a ceremony marking the 32nd anniversary of the Royal Gendarmerie in Kampong Chhnang province on July 14, Hun Manet said the law, which was enacted in 2006 but has not been implemented, will require eligible citizens to serve for 24 months, up from the originally planned 18 months.

He explained that the extension is necessary to allow more comprehensive training.

Under the law, all men and women aged 18 to 30 are subject to military service, though participation remains voluntary for women.

The enforcement aims to boost both the quantity and quality of trained reservists. After completing service, conscripts may return to civilian life or join the professional military voluntarily.