Cambodia: 30th anniversary of the Paris Peace Accords

“Thirty years ago, Cambodia was front and centre on the world stage. On October 23, 1991, the four main Cambodian political factions and governments from around the world gathered in the capital of France to sign the Paris Peace Accords. These promised an end to civil war, a new constitution, the return of refugees, economic development, and the holding of elections that would establish a political system that was rights respecting and democratic.

“Cambodia was seeing a new day, getting a new chance, and building a new future. The Accords opened the way for the massive United Nations Transitional Authority in Cambodia effort. UNTAC was the world’s first post-Cold War national reconstruction exercise, replete with civilian administration, election administration, and thousands of UN peacekeepers.

“What did the Paris Peace Accords process get right – and what did it get wrong? How have promises on human rights and democracy been undermined? And what is the impact today of the Paris Peace Accords in Cambodia -- are they still relevant and important?”

On October 19, the Foreign Correspondents’ Club of Thailand hosted a night of history, political analysis, and current affairs in Cambodia, with remarks from Gareth Evans, Sam Rainsy, Elizabeth Becker, Amb. Pou Sothirak, and Chak Sopheap.

Watch the recording on FCCT’s Facebook page.