Civil society groups, unions, monks and activists are planning a thousands-strong march in Phnom Penh to deliver petitions to the National Assembly and Ministry of Justice to mark International Human Rights Day on December 10.

Ee Sarom, executive director of housing rights group STT, said yesterday that this year’s event will focus on the theme of “social justice”, and that some 3,000 people are expected to participate.

Related events are scheduled in 10 provinces – addressing issues such as forced evictions and problems with the courts – in the days ahead of the main capital march.

“We concluded that social injustice is prevailing in Cambodia, especially for the community members who suffer most from this,” Sarom said.

On Friday, activists submitted a letter to City Hall informing authorities of their intention to march.

However, City Hall spokesman Long Dimanche said yesterday that the municipality had not yet reviewed the letter, adding, “Generally, marches are not allowed because Phnom Penh is facing traffic congestion.”

“We have to wait for the decision from the superiors,” he said.