The NGOs and rights groups say the bill, which is being debated by parliament and is supported by the government of Prime Minister Hun Sen, is unnecessary and will potentially hamper the work of thousands of NGOs in the country, while acting as a tool to curtail government criticism.
Cambodian Civil Society Groups Protest Against NGO Draft Law
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A pro-democracy activist joins the anti-NGO draft law campaign in front of the National Assembly on June 30, 2015. (Hean Socheata/VOA Khmer)
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Pro-democracy activists say "No" to the NGO draft law. (Photo: Nov Povleakhena/VOA Khmer)
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Anti-riot police are deployed to stop pro-democracy groups from marching to the national assembly on June 30, 2015. (Hean Socheata/VOA Khmer)
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Representatives from Cambodian National Rescue Party which includes Real Camerin (center) take part in a campaign to protest against the NGO draft law in front of the National Assembly on June 30, 2015. (Nov Povleakhena/VOA Khmer)
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A female activist says "No" to the NGO draft law. (Photo: Nov Povleakhena/VOA Khmer)