Cambodia

Since it became a French protectorate in 1867 and following its full independence in 1953, Cambodia has never criminalized same-sex sexual activity between adults. However, Article 45 of the constitution defines marriage as the union between one husband and one wife. During its third Universal Periodic Review (UPR) in June 2019, Cambodia accepted recommendations to legalize same-sex marriage. In its fourth UPR in 2024, Cambodia accepted all 12 recommendations on LGBTIQ people’s rights, including seven recommendations to make progress toward marriage equality. In the absence of legal provisions recognizing same-sex marriage, some couples have had unofficial traditional wedding ceremonies and parties. In 2018, authorities interrupted and prohibited a wedding ceremony between two men in the Kratie province. 

The country’s legislation does not contain any provision prohibiting discrimination on the grounds of sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, or sex characteristics. Sexual and gender minorities still face discrimination and family rejection. LGBTIQ organizations and activists are able to obtain legal status and operate freely in the country. 

Cambodian government officials have participated in dialogues with LGBTIQ civil society to discuss further advancing the rights of people of queer experience. In February 2026, the President of the Cambodian Human Rights Committee endorsed the formal recognition of same-sex marriage. In 2025, he also remarked on the importance of protecting human rights in correctional facilities, especially for transgender people. In the same year, the Department of Media and Communication urged media institutions to establish internal gender sensitive policies to ensure the safety of women and LGBTQ+ journalists.