According to a media report, an official document dated May 15, 2025, titled “Install and Manage National Internet Gateways,” provides new details about the government’s implementation plan. It names state-owned Telecom Cambodia and the Ministry of Post and Telecommunications (MPTC) as responsible for infrastructure work beginning in 2026. If successfully implemented, the NIG will enable the regime to control the infosphere and conduct surveillance in a more sophisticated manner. The system is expected to mirror China’s Great Firewall, under which internet use is tightly controlled and subject to extensive surveillance. However, user behavior in China and Cambodia differs significantly. For example, China’s large population has allowed it to develop its own applications and technologies cost-effectively, enabling the government to closely monitor online activity. Cambodia, by contrast, still relies heavily on Western social media platforms, making it more difficult for the regime to exercise the same degree of control. C. Implications of the Situations on Human Rights and Democracy Based on key developments in 2025, the most concerning issue is the regime’s control of information. The situation surrounding the border conflict between Cambodia and Thailand demonstrates that state agencies and their affiliates systematically disseminate propaganda and disinformation. When official statements themselves contain propaganda and disinformation to safeguard the regime’s interests, it signifies that press freedom, freedom of expression, and democracy have been entirely eradicated. This situation stems from years of crackdowns on independent media and critical voices, which have effectively eliminated alternative narratives challenging the government’s messaging. As a result, citizens are losing access to a pluralistic flow of information, which is essential for informed decision-making and public debate. Given the current context, in which state-controlled propaganda and disinformation proliferate, concerted efforts are needed to counter these narratives. Nonetheless, the regime’s oppressive measures prevent local actors from effectively challenging such propaganda. Journalists and media outlets are regularly harassed for reporting that runs counter to the regime’s interests. While counter-reporting is needed, building capacity for documenting and reporting the situation is also crucial. However, due to ongoing suppression, this also remains difficult to achieve inside Cambodia. During the height of the border conflict between Cambodia and Thailand, cyber trolls on social media platforms were documented, suggesting there is more to explore about these operations, including potential links to the state. To properly document and study such activities and their complexity, more tools and techniques are needed. 30