In a pioneering initiative which aimed to examine press freedom in Cambodia, the Ministry of Information held its first-ever press freedom survey “The State of Press Freedom in Cambodia”. The poll, conducted across all 25 capital-provinces of Cambodia, involved 341 journalists.

The comprehensive survey sought to measure journalists' perceptions of press freedom, covering aspects such as diversity in media, legal frameworks, and the impact of the digital transformation on traditional media.

The results were announced on April 30, when a 53-page report was released at a press conference led by Minister of Information Neth Pheaktra. The launch was attended by representatives from domestic and international media outlets. 

Pheaktra emphasised that the current media climate requires all stakeholders to practice self-improvement, in order to keep up with evolving trends and correspond with the rhythm of developing the Kingdom’s information sector.

“These efforts are destined to ensure the quality of information and media efficiency, enabling market competitiveness and adherence to the professional ethics of journalism, while contributing to combating fake news,” he explained.

Addressing the issue of misinformation, 81.2% of the journalists surveyed identified the crucial role that journalists play in combating fake news, which is increasingly important in the digital age.

Pen Bona, Minister Attached to the Prime Minister and head of the Royal Government Spokesperson Unit, highlighted the crucial role of journalists in combating misinformation.

Bona was quoted in the survey as saying "Journalists are on the frontline in our fight against misinformation. Their role is pivotal, not just in reporting news but in shaping an informed society."

The report revealed that 79.8% of respondents believe that press freedom in Cambodia is either "Good" or "Very Good". 

A significant majority, 95%, recognized the diversity of media as a positive influence on press freedom. 

The findings contradict a statement by the UN Human Rights Office (OHCHR) which was issued in August, and claimed that the journalistic environment in Cambodia has deteriorated significantly due to restrictive laws and government surveillance.

More than 80% of the 65 journalists involved in the OHCHR interviews reported interference in their work, including being placed under surveillance. 

The OHCHR also outlined the need for Cambodia to improve the legal framework supporting press freedom, citing numerous challenges, especially for women in the media who are particularly under-represented and subject to gender-based violence.

In its detailed exploration, the information ministry utilised a combination of qualitative and quantitative research methods, including a comprehensive desk review of legal documents, a nationwide survey of 350 journalists using random sampling and in-depth interviews with 11 media industry leaders. 

However, only 341 of these were deemed valid for analysis. The reduction in the number of valid responses typically occurs due to incomplete answers, improperly completed forms, or the withdrawal of consent by participants after submitting their responses.

The ministry claimed that this robust approach allowed the study to capture a broad statistical landscape and provide nuanced insights into the experiences and perceptions of press freedom from those directly involved in the media sector.

However, it acknowledged that some challenges remain, particularly in the adaptation of traditional media to digital innovation and in maintaining journalistic standards amidst rapid technological changes.

Pheaktra highlighted how the economic crisis and a business downturn have intensified competition among influencers, prompting companies to establish their own media channels for advertising promotion.

"Traditional media stalwarts like Rasmei Kampuchea and the Phnom Penh Post have ceased their print operations, shifting their focus to online platforms," he said.

He also warned of the challenges posed by unprofessional ethics in journalism, particularly regarding news sourcing and the need for balanced and thorough reporting.

"In 2023, the Ministry of Information handled 79 complaints, resolving them extrajudicially through actions such as corrections and contract fulfilments," Pheaktra noted.

During the conference, he also drew attention to the government's efforts to promote freedom of the press and expression, building upon the advancements of previous administrations. 

He underscored the importance of these freedoms for sustainable development and peace in the region.

Additionally, the survey provided some key statistics on the Kingdom’s media infrastructure.

The country has a broad range of television stations, including 143 analogue, 165 live, and 12 digital stations, among others. 

The media sector also includes a substantial number of print and online outlets, with 933 websites and online platforms and 477 newspapers, which contributes to a vibrant information environment.

The findings also highlighted a significant gender disparity within the industry, with males representing a dominant 93.5% of respondents, with just 6.5% of them female. 

This stark imbalance raises questions about the accessibility and inclusivity of the media sector in Cambodia.

Among those surveyed, almost all stressed the significance of adhering to journalistic professional ethics. 

Additionally, 92.1% were in favour of legal actions against journalists who violate these ethics, and nearly all endorsed the introduction of a training programme aimed at enhancing the professional abilities and quality of journalists.

Nop Vy, executive director of the Cambodian Journalists Alliance, stressed the need for continued education and professional development.

In the survey, he said, “There is a significant gap in continuous professional development for journalists in Cambodia, which needs to be addressed to maintain high standards of journalism”.

Journalists in Cambodia generally belong to a middle-aged group, with the average age being 42 years. 

This underscores the presence of a seasoned workforce, with 34% of journalists aged between 31-40 years and 33% falling in the 41–50-year age bracket. 

The survey also revealed that 21% of reporters are over 50 years old, highlighting a significant representation of senior professionals in the field. 

In contrast, younger aged 21-30, constitute a smaller fraction, making up just 10.9% of the total, suggesting that the field is currently dominated by individuals with a considerable amount of professional experience.

The educational attainment among journalists in Cambodia demonstrates a diverse range of academic backgrounds, reflecting a broad spectrum of knowledge bases and skills within the journalism community. 

Of those surveyed, 43.9% have only completed high school, while a third of the respondents, amounting to 33.3%, hold a bachelor’s degree. 

“6.2% of journalists have achieved postgraduate qualifications, enhancing their reporting and analytical capabilities. Surprisingly, 3.5% of journalists have education only up to the primary level,” Pheaktra noted.

This variety in educational levels suggests that the depth and quality of reporting in Cambodia can vary significantly, influenced by the differing levels of formal education among journalists.

The information ministry announced that it stands ready to work with press associations and all stakeholders to uphold the quality of professional journalism and media effectiveness by continuing to strengthen the implementation of professional ethics and the management of information security.

Puy Kea, president of the Club of Cambodian Journalists, explained the dual role of the media in society.

"The media not only informs but educates the public. Ensuring the ethical grounding of our journalists is paramount to maintaining public trust and upholding the integrity of our profession," Kea said, in the report. 

Pheaktra believed the survey's findings would serve as a crucial foundation for future actions aimed at improving the media landscape in Cambodia and will enhance government initiatives to safeguard journalistic practices and press freedom within the legal framework of the country.

The ministry is currently conducting reviews of current laws on the press, with the aim of upgrading them to correspond with the advance of society.

Nop Vy concurred, saying that a review of the press laws is necessary because the current regulations are not robust enough to effectively protect journalists. He advocated for a long-overdue revision and amendment of these laws. 

“I recognize the initiative of the ministry and I urge them to expedite the process, but it's crucial to involve stakeholders in the process to manage the media landscape for the effective utilisation of legislation," he told The Post.