CAMBODIA

Cambodia remains a generally safe destination for travellers. The main tourist areas, such as Siem Reap, Phnom Penh, and Sihanoukville, benefit from a visible police presence and appropriate infrastructure. However, isolated incidents of petty crime – such as pickpocketing or scams – may occur, especially in crowded places or at night.

In Phnom Penh, security has improved in recent years, particularly in tourist-friendly districts like the riverfront along the Mekong or business areas, thanks to a strong police presence. Nonetheless, some peripheral or less frequented neighbourhoods may pose higher risks.

In Sihanoukville, following a period marked by gang-related violence and the proliferation of casinos, the security situation has stabilised. Areas such as Serendipity Beach, Otres Beach, and the city centre are now relatively safe. However, it is advisable to avoid travelling at night in certain sensitive zones, especially around the port of Sihanoukville, Victory Hill, White Sand 3, Chinatown, and the districts near large casinos and hotels, where organised crime linked to drug trafficking, prostitution, and extortion remains a concern.

Other regions of Cambodia also offer a safe environment, provided caution is exercised. Kampot and Kep are considered quiet and safe, although some cases of motorbike or accommodation thefts have been reported. Battambang is also relatively secure, with only occasional transport-related scams. In remote provinces such as Mondulkiri and Ratanakiri, security is good as long as visitors remain on marked trails – some roads may be isolated or in poor condition.

While most of the country remains peaceful, particularly in tourist and rural areas, certain regions are experiencing growing instability. Since late July 2025, military tensions have erupted between Cambodia and Thailand, primarily along their shared border. An incident involving Thai soldiers injured by landmines triggered escalation, including exchanges of fire, airstrikes, and troop deployments. Thai authorities accuse Cambodia of violating the ceasefire, while Phnom Penh denies the allegations and calls for a peaceful resolution. Despite negotiations held in Shanghai under Chinese mediation, the situation remains volatile.

This conflict has displaced over 300,000 people, many of whom now live in makeshift shelters under precarious conditions. Civilian infrastructure, including pagodas and petrol stations, has also been damaged. Although the ceasefire declared on 28 July provided temporary relief, sporadic violations continue, making the security situation still worrisome.

Border areas such as Preah Vihear Province – particularly around the temple – and Oddar Meanchey regularly experience armed tensions related to territorial disputes. These areas are strongly discouraged for travellers due to the risks of clashes, sporadic incidents including gunfire exchanges and increased military deployments, unexploded landmines, closure of border crossings, and arbitrary arrests.

Furthermore, some rural zones, particularly those near former civil war frontlines (such as along the borders with Laos or Thailand), may still contain undetonated landmines. It is therefore essential to heed warning signs and not stray from marked paths.

Political instability in Cambodia has also worsened in 2025, characterised by a dual leadership between Prime Minister Hun Manet and his father Hun Sen, who continues to exercise de facto control, especially over military matters. This imbalance was highlighted during the recent border conflict with Thailand, in which Hun Sen directly led the armed response, sidelining his son and civilian institutions. This reflects a centralisation of military power, bolstered by China – the regime’s main ally. In line with its strategy of expanding influence in Southeast Asia, Beijing provides substantial economic and security support to Cambodia, particularly in coastal areas such as Sihanoukville, where Chinese presence is increasingly visible.

From a security perspective, this authoritarian and militarised dynamic increases the risk of repression during periods of internal tension, heightened control over movement in sensitive zones (Thai border, regions under Chinese influence), and possible exploitation of crises to consolidate power. Caution is therefore advised for travellers and business operators, especially in border areas and regions of strategic importance.

In summary, Cambodia remains broadly safe for travellers, especially in its main tourist areas. However, increased vigilance is recommended with regard to petty crime and in some peripheral neighbourhoods. In addition, recent tensions with Thailand make border regions high-risk and strongly discouraged. Finally, growing political instability may lead to heightened security measures, stricter controls, and potential limitations on freedom of movement in certain regions.