UN rights expert calls for calm amid growing demonstrations in Cambodia
The United Nations Special Rapporteur on the situation of human rights in Cambodia, Surya P. Subedi, on Friday reiterated his call for calm and restraint as demonstrations are now taking place daily in Phnom Penh. “Demonstrations such as those of recent days and weeks are a new sight in Cambodia. I am pleased to see that the democratic space has increased to such extent that so many Cambodians feel comfortable to express themselves in the streets without fear of retaliation,” Subedi said in a statement released by the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights Office to Cambodia. … “I once again appeal to all aides to exercise the utmost restraint and calm,” he [Subedi] said, adding “tolerance and racial harmony is crucial for the future of democracy in Cambodia.” … “Any dispute needs a credible mechanism for dispute resolution which is acceptable to both sides. Such a mechanism was missing and this is why frustrated opposition supporters have taken to the streets. It is imperative that both sides come back to the negotiating table,” he [Subedi] said. Subedi also called for meaningful talks to resolve the current dispute over the minimum wage. All parties — the government, striking workers, trade unions, factories and buyers — need to reassure protesting workers that they would develop a realistic wage structure, Subedi said. …
Xinhuanet News Staff
http://news.xinhuanet.com/english/world/2013-12/27/c_133002304.htm
