Cambodia's Information ministry appeals for public to cease social media attacks on foreign leaders
PHNOM PENH: The Ministry of Information has issued an urgent call for all content creators, social media users and members of the public to immediately cease any form of insult or defamation targeting foreign heads of state or leaders, even in the context of current border tensions.
The request was issued Tuesday (July 29), following a noticeable rise in edited images, inflammatory content and inappropriate commentary circulating online.
These actions have caused insults affecting the honour and dignity of individuals, including politicians and members of royalty.
The ministry urged all social media users to conduct themselves with integrity, responsibility and respect, and to adhere to ethical standards of public discourse.
It stressed that its goal is to maintain public order and uphold peaceful online environments, free from incitement, hate speech, racism or ethnically charged rhetoric.
The statement advised the public to avoid sharing or producing unverified information that could lead to confusion, anger, violence, hatred or racial discrimination.
It also called on journalists, content creators and the public to verify information with official sources — particularly on sensitive issues such as the Cambodia-Thailand border conflict — before sharing it.
Additionally, it asked people to refrain from posting doctored images or false content that could be viewed as defamatory, especially toward royal institutions.
The ministry concluded by praising responsible media professionals and users who have contributed positively to Cambodia's messaging, helping uphold accuracy and diplomacy in addressing the conflict.
It commended their ethical behaviour, respect for others' rights and commitment to a peaceful, law-based resolution in line with international law. - The Phnom Penh Post/ANN
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