This article, part of the “Blue Security” project led by various academic and research institutions, details Cambodia’s maritime governance priorities within its national defense strategy. Historically focused on land borders, Cambodia has increasingly recognized the importance of the maritime domain since its 2002 Defense Strategic Review, identifying three main priorities: border security, control of its Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ), and constabulary duties.
Maritime Border Security:
Cambodia prioritizes maritime border security as a means to combat transnational crime, including terrorism and human trafficking. The aftermath of the September 11 attacks heightened Cambodian concerns about terrorism, culminating in the inclusion of counter-terrorism measures in multiple defense white papers since 2000. This strategic focus has intensified following incidents like the 2002 Bali bombing, when its mastermind was found to be hiding in Cambodia.
Control of the Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ):
Effective management of its EEZ is crucial for Cambodia to exploit resources such as fisheries and offshore oil, which can ultimately fuel national development through a sustainable Blue Economy. Improved monitoring is essential to counter illegal, unregulated fishing, which threatens marine resources crucial to Cambodia’s economy.
Constabulary Duties:
Enhancing maritime constabulary capabilities is another priority, as Cambodia seeks to better respond to piracy, disasters, and maritime emergencies. Despite foundational efforts like establishing the National Committee for Maritime Security (NCMS) in 2009, challenges remain in operational effectiveness and inter-agency coordination.
Critical Maritime Security Challenges:
Cambodia faces significant long-term challenges from unresolved maritime border disputes with Vietnam and Thailand, as well as regional tensions over the South China Sea. Ongoing negotiations for joint development areas in overlapping claim regions have stalled, primarily due to the pandemic and domestic issues within the involved nations. The legacy of historical grievances also complicates relations, as seen in disputes over territorial waters and recognition of sovereignty issues.
Maritime Governance Strengths and Gaps:
Cambodia’s engagement in international frameworks helps bridge its domestic capability gaps. As a member of ASEAN, Cambodia participates in various security initiatives, yet it experiences significant constraints in expert training, institutional capacity, and naval infrastructure. The Royal Cambodian Navy (RCN) currently lacks the resources needed to enforce maritime laws effectively and to engage in joint operations with allied nations.
The redevelopment of the Ream Naval Base has been identified as essential to overcoming these gaps, improving maritime operational capacity, and addressing logistical challenges. This modernization aims to enable Cambodia to welcome international vessels and improve national surveillance and command systems.
Recommendations for International Cooperation:
The article identifies four key areas where international partners can assist Cambodia in enhancing its maritime governance capabilities. These include language and capacity-building training in maritime affairs, institutional support for RCN and NCMS, strategic dialogues through diplomatic channels, and assistance in enhancing Cambodia’s capabilities in humanitarian disaster response and counter-terrorism.
Role of Security Frameworks:
Minilateral security frameworks, particularly emerging initiatives like the Quad’s Indo-Pacific Partnership for Maritime Domain Awareness (IPMDA), may further strengthen Cambodia’s maritime governance by promoting transparency and cooperation among regional stakeholders.
In conclusion, while Cambodia recognizes the strategic importance of maritime governance for national security and economic development, it faces significant challenges both internally and in regional relations. By fostering international cooperation, Cambodia aims to build its maritime capabilities and effectively manage its maritime domain amidst a complex geopolitical landscape.
