Religious freedom in Cambodia
Freedom of religion and belief is a fundamental human right. But in Cambodia, religious minorities and indigenous peoples face restrictions and discrimination. Danmission works with local partners to foster dialogue across faiths and support communities to protect their traditions and rights.
Promoting Freedom of Religion and Belief in Cambodia
Cambodia’s constitution guarantees freedom of religion and belief. Yet, in practice, minority communities – from Christians and Muslims to indigenous groups – face significant barriers. Bureaucratic restrictions, discriminatory laws, and illegal logging threaten not only freedom of belief but also access to sacred sites.
Together with local partners and the Center for Church-based Development Cooperation (CKU), Danmission engages communities and authorities in promoting inclusivity and tolerance.
Through community-based interfaith dialogues and training sessions, more than 200 faith community members and civil society staff have gained knowledge about freedom of religion or belief (FoRB) and how to promote tolerance in their local communities.
Cooperation between people from different religious backgrounds has improved. We see religious leaders coming together in a process of reconciliation.
Empowering minorities and indigenous peoples
For Cambodia’s indigenous peoples, faith and identity are deeply tied to nature. When forests are destroyed, so are sacred sites and traditions. The project has supported communities that face obstacles in accessing sacred land and preserving traditions.
One respondent highlighted:
Communities have been able to revisit some old traditions or belief systems they had almost given up. As a result, some of these traditions, like old dances and rituals, have been resurrected.
Strengthening advocacy
At the community level, local committees have been formed to represent diverse faiths and resolve tensions before they escalate, and more than 20 public events brought people together to celebrate cultural and religious diversity.
At the national level, the project collaborates with Cambodia’s Ministry of Cults and Religion to promote dialogue and raise awareness of FoRB, while internationally, Cambodian voices are now heard in UN discussions and regional networks.
Our Impact
Through training, dialogue, and advocacy, the project builds resilience and promotes peaceful coexistence.
It empowers indigenous and minority groups to assert their cultural and religious identities and prevents potential conflict between religious groups.
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faith actors organised in local, national, and international networks
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community members and civil society staff trained in FoRB
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celebration events and advocacy initiatives promoting diversity and tolerance
Part of a bigger change
Danmission’s work in Cambodia is one of many initiatives where we defend human rights, promote dialogue, and empower local communities. Together with partners across East Africa, Asia and the Middle East, we stand up for freedom of belief and build bridges across faiths.
Learn about the foundation of our work here.