Article 9 of the 1989 Constitution of Democratic Kampuchea declares Buddhism as the state religion. At the same time, the right of the Cambodian people to freedom of thought, conscience and religion is guaranteed. Islam and Christianity and “all other religions” are recognized and respected, as are traditional beliefs of Cambodian ethnic minorities. The government seeks to promote dialogue, tolerance and respect amongst all faith communities.
The Ministry of Cults and Religions monitors religious affairs. All religious groups must apply to this ministry in order to receive permission to build a place of worship. In addition, in 2003, the ministry issued a Directive on Controlling External Religions that requires that palaces of worship and religious instruction register with the government. The Directive prohibits public proselytizing.
In 2002, the government deported two members of the Falun Gong to China and also refused to admit the Dalai Lama to the country to attend the World Buddhism Conference.
2003 U.S. State Department International Religious Freedom Report on Cambodia
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