Cambodia – Sentencing of former Khmer Rouge leader Khieu Samphan (Sept. 22, 2022)

Today the Supreme Court Chamber of the Extraordinary Chambers in the Courts of Cambodia (ECCC) upheld the life sentence handed down against former Khmer Rouge leader Khieu Samphan for genocide, crimes against humanity and grave breaches of the Geneva Conventions.

France welcomes this decision. We have supported the Extraordinary Chambers since they were established in 2006. Their work has helped consolidate peace and the rule of law in Cambodia, in line with the process begun by the 1991 Paris Peace Agreements.

Today’s decision, which brings the Chambers’ judicial process to a close, is a major milestone. By preserving and promoting the Chambers’ archives, the Cambodian authorities will help pass on the memory of the genocide for future generations of Cambodians. France stands ready to support these goals and reaffirms its strong commitment to justice and reconciliation.