Statement by the Spokesperson on the verdict of the Phnom Penh municipal court

EU News 251/2014

Brussels, 01 June 2014
140601/01

"We welcome the release on 30 May of the trade unionists and garment workers who had been charged in relation to the early January demonstrations.

The EU hopes that this latest development indicates a positive shift in the recently deteriorating situation of the freedom of assembly in Phnom Penh and the recurrent harassment of trade unionists.

The EU is the largest market for Cambodia's exports, especially for the garment sector. The EU and its citizens attach a great importance to the respect of fundamental rights such as the freedom of assembly and the workers' and trade unions' rights. The EU encourages the Royal Government of Cambodia to accelerate the restoration of these fundamental rights and to release the results of the investigation of the killings of early January. The EU calls on all stakeholders to engage in the development of a constructive dialogue on improving industrial relations.

Source and additional information:
http://eeas.europa.eu/statements/docs/2014/140601_01_en.pdf

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