Artificial Intelligence law at Cambodia
As of May 2025, Cambodia does not have a comprehensive national law specifically governing artificial intelligence (AI). However, the country is actively engaged in developing ethical AI governance frameworks through national initiatives and regional cooperation.
🇰🇭 Cambodia’s AI Governance Initiatives
1. Ethics of AI Readiness Assessment (RAM)
In November 2024, Cambodia, in collaboration with UNESCO and the Ministry of Post and Telecommunications (MPTC), launched the Ethics of AI Readiness Assessment (RAM). This initiative involved over 180 stakeholders, including government ministries, research institutions, and the private sector, to evaluate Cambodia’s preparedness for the ethical development and use of AI technologies. The findings from this assessment are intended to inform the formulation of Cambodia’s national AI policies and strategies, aligning with UNESCO’s Recommendation on the Ethics of AI. (UNESCO, UNESCO)
2. MPTC Working Group on AI
In April 2024, the MPTC established a Working Group on the Study and Development of Artificial Intelligence and Data Science. This group comprises three sub-working groups focusing on AI development, data science, and AI policy. Their responsibilities include drafting a national AI master plan, researching advancements in AI technologies, and developing open-source Large Language Models (LLMs) for the Khmer language. The group also aims to foster AI adoption across various sectors and ensure ethical standards in AI applications. (ai.gov.kh)
3. National AI Strategy Development
Cambodia is in the process of developing a national AI strategy as part of the "Community of Practice on AI Initiative." The first phase of this strategy focuses on enhancing national productivity, building human capital, developing digital infrastructure, promoting AI in the public sector, and fostering inclusive innovation. The strategy emphasizes the importance of inclusivity, ensuring that AI benefits are accessible to all segments of society.
🌐 Regional Cooperation: ASEAN AI Governance
Cambodia is actively participating in regional efforts to establish AI governance frameworks within the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN). In January 2025, ASEAN Digital Ministers adopted the Expanded Guide on Artificial Intelligence Governance and Ethics. This guide aims to streamline the design, development, and deployment of AI systems across ASEAN member states, ensuring adherence to ethical standards. Cambodia, through the MPTC, represents the regional initiative, addressing the ethical and regulatory challenges posed by AI technology. (DPA)
⚖️ Legal and Ethical Considerations
While Cambodia is making significant strides in AI governance, challenges remain. The country lacks specific laws addressing AI, and existing legal frameworks may not fully encompass AI-related issues such as data privacy, algorithmic accountability, and transparency. The absence of clear regulations could pose risks related to human rights and data security. Therefore, ongoing efforts to develop comprehensive AI policies and legal frameworks are crucial to ensure the responsible and ethical use of AI technologies in Cambodia. (eurocham-advocacy-compass.com)
✅ Summary
National Initiatives: Cambodia is developing ethical AI governance frameworks through the RAM assessment, the MPTC Working Group on AI, and the formulation of a national AI strategy.
Regional Cooperation: The country is actively participating in ASEAN's efforts to establish AI governance standards.
Legal Considerations: While progress is being made, Cambodia lacks specific AI laws, and existing legal frameworks may need to be updated to address AI-related issues comprehensively.(ai.gov.kh)
Cambodia's proactive approach to AI governance, both nationally and regionally, positions it to develop a robust and ethical AI landscape in the coming years.
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