Though poverty level still remains high and corruption is rampant, Cambodians are hopeful that with time, officials will begin real development in the interest of its people. This is the general response when I discuss Khmer politics with Cambodians and Cambodian-Americans.

But I certainly don’t agree. Government will not change unless there is a force powerful enough to influence change. The US did not achieve social justice without a movement, a populist movement that spawned a change in policies and social justice. Though it was a working progress, it started with people willing to sacrifice their lives for a noble cause.

There is no doubt that many Cambodians dare not speak out against their leaders for fear of reprisal.

Interestingly, land seizures was not a paramount concern to Cambodians? One would think that in the last several years -with the land speculating frenzy- citizens would be apprehensive about officials taking their homes away.

Apologies for the diatribe.

-Joe the Realist

Most of Cambodia people will not dare to say our government do the wrong thing to the reporter or interviewer.

Even, I am who is post-graduated person i do not dare to say anything bad to our government if someone come to interview me even they said they will keep it confidential.

Moreover, the questionnaire would be specific not too broad or general as Khmer people knowledge is limited and lead to wrong evaluation.

Thanks/Regards
Seng