Rich Neal: “Today we are voting on granting MFN to Cambodia. Cambodia did not have MFN in the past because they were under Communist…”

“Today we are voting on granting MFN to Cambodia. Cambodia did not have MFN in the past because they were under Communist rule. Over the past few years the country has had democratic elections, and the new government has made steps toward a market economy. I am concerned about granting MFN to Cambodia. This legislation provides Cambodia with permanent and unconditional MFN status. In my opinion, Cambodia needs to make progress in two extremely important areas: Human rights and labor rights. Democracy and human rights are continually under attack in Cambodia. The Royal Cambodian Government is persecuting journalistic critics, expelling government opposition members of Parliament, and creating an atmosphere of fear to stifle those who would speak up for democracy. The granting of MFN does not mean Congress is not concerned about human rights violations. Congress will continue to monitor Cambodia's progress in this area. Cambodia has still not passed a labor law that meets international labor standards. At this time, freedom of association for workers is not guaranteed. The right to strike does not exist. In addition, there are no minimum labor standards. Recently, an opposition member of the Cambodia National Assembly, Sam Rainsy, was expelled from the assembly without a vote by the governing parties lead by the co-Prime Ministers. Also, there is a rumor other human rights supporters might be expelled. In recent months, the situation in Cambodia has not improved.”