Cambodia: Events marking Victory Day to occur nationwide, Jan. 7

Event

Officials will observe the annual Victory Day public holiday across Cambodia Jan. 7 to commemorate the 44th anniversary of the end of the former Khmer Rouge regime. The government will host the primary events in Phnom Penh's Koh Pich Convention and Exhibition Center; reports estimate the gathering will draw some 60,000 participants, and Prime Minister Hun Sen will address the public. Officials will likely organize additional events nationwide. Larger events may draw up to thousands of participants, especially in urban areas, such as Phnom Penh, Siem Reap, and Sihanoukville.

Authorities are implementing tight security measures, particularly in Phnom Penh. Security personnel will close several roads leading up to the Koh Pich Convention and Exhibition Center and will likely enact measures to accommodate official ceremonies across the country. Although there are no immediate announcements for such gatherings, activists may stage small-scale demonstrations Jan. 7. Officials will likely disperse protests quickly; clashes and mass arrests cannot be ruled out. Localized transport disruptions are likely near sites hosting larger events and near sites where rallies materialize.

Advice

Seek updates from trusted local sources on any celebration plans, as organizers may not announce details in advance. Plan for possible localized transport disruptions near program sites Jan. 7. Avoid any demonstrations due to possible clashes; if any violence starts nearby, immediately depart the area and seek shelter at a secure non-governmental building. Remain polite and cooperative if stopped by security personnel for checks. Heed all official security and transport advisories.