Kambodscha verpflichtet den Militärdienst von 2026 nach thailändischen Grenzspannungen

SS: Cambodia will implement mandatory military service for men aged 18 to 30 starting in 2026, reviving a long-dormant 2006 conscription law in response to escalating border tensions with Thailand, according to *ABC News* and *AFP*. Prime Minister Hun Manet announced the move after a May firefight in the disputed Emerald Triangle region resulted in the death of a Cambodian soldier and worsened diplomatic relations, leading to border closures and trade restrictions.

Under the revised policy, conscription will be extended from 18 to 24 months to ensure comprehensive training and administrative efficiency. While men are required to serve, military duty for women remains voluntary. The Prime Minister emphasized that the initiative is defensive, aimed at protecting national sovereignty, and also hinted at a potential increase in the defense budget. After completing their service, conscripts will return to civilian life but remain on reserve.