Cambodia’s political system remains dominated by the Cambodian People’s Party. The exclusion of the main opposition force from the 2023 election prevented any meaningful political competition. The transfer of power from Hun Sen to Hun Manet did not change the highly centralized exercise of authority, as key institutions remain firmly under party control. Restrictions on freedom of expression and continued arrests of critics underline the lack of checks and balances. As the party’s lifelong chairman and newly elected President of the Senate, Hun Sen remains the de facto most powerful man in the country.
Economic growth resumed after the pandemic, supported by stable inflation and expanding welfare measures. However, politically connected actors continue to shape market conditions and limit regulatory effectiveness. Tourism’s recovery remains slow; private debt has risen sharply, and inclusive development strategies receive insufficient attention.
Governance is hindered by corruption, weak administrative capacity, and persistent elite dominance. Policy implementation remains inconsistent, and environmental reforms face significant implementation gaps that limit their impact. While Cambodia maintains close alignment with China and adopts a more assertive stance toward Vietnam, governance reforms lack depth and institutional weaknesses continue to restrict effective policymaking.
