Gov’t Forms Task Force to Combat Illegal Land Seizures in Targeted  Provinces

• Sommana Yan
• 29 March 2024
• Local News
• 1461 Views

The Government of Cambodia has taken decisive action to combat illegal logging, land clearing, and forest land encroachment in several provinces by establishing a National Committee through decision No. 19 pillar dated 22 January 2024.

Chaired by the Minister of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries, the 13-member National Committee is tasked with assignments including:

1. Prepare and implement action plans to disseminate laws and regulations related to all types of forest land.
2. Conduct inspections and research of areas where illegal forest land is being cleared for ownership or business purposes.
3. Take measures to prevent, eliminate, and crack down on all types of logging, burning, clearing, and fencing of forest land.
4. Collaborate with international organisations and donor communities to promote and support these efforts.
5. Compile reports and make recommendations to the head of the Royal Government regarding the implementation of the action plan.

The decision underscores the government’s unwavering commitment to crack down on illegal activities, particularly in the realm of forest land management. Notably, the Royal Government has previously emphasised its zero-tolerance policy towards illegal logging and land encroachment. (Read more)

In a recent crackdown led by the Ministry of Environment, authorities seized 3,942.73 hectares of land in Pursat province within just five days, demonstrating the government’s proactive stance in safeguarding natural resources. (Read more)

This latest decision supersedes the previous decision No. 93 Pillar dated 21 June 2019, highlighting the government’s determination to strengthen efforts in combating illegal logging and land seizures across the Kingdom of Cambodia.

• land development and policy