Phnom Penh (FN), Aug. 20 – The Buddhist philosophy of the East and the democratic principles of the West are in one way synonymous and in several ways centred on freedom of choice or preferences and a mix of constitutionally protected rights of the people, respectively. The Buddhist philosophy covers the Eight Noble Path and the virtuous precepts of good deeds that encompass mutual respect, love, kindness, compassion, integrity, sincerity, truthfulness, nonviolence, and peaceful and harmonious coexistence of the nature and all living beings. The Buddha saw that happiness is the sole goal of existence, while detachments from all desires equate peace of mind and self-fulfilment, and contemporary democracy is founded on the idea that all people are fundamentally equal and have the same rights to life, liberty, and happiness. The desire for a more peaceful and democratic society is more important than ever in today's world.
Cambodia's deep-rooted connection with Buddhism dates back to the fifth century C.E., when the country began practicing and integrating the religion into its culture. Over the centuries, Cambodia saw periods of adoption and adaptation, blending Buddhism with Hinduism and local belief systems, particularly during the Angkor period under King Jayavarman VII. His reign was marked by a harmonious coexistence of these religions, which contributed to a period of peace and stability. In the modern era, Cambodia fully embraced Theravada Buddhism, and in 1993, it was officially adopted as the state religion.
Since the first general elections in 1993, Cambodia has maintained a liberal, multi-party democracy as outlined in its Constitution. Under the leadership of Prime Minister Hun Sen, the country has regularly conducted free and fair elections, upheld the rule of law, and fostered a political environment that emphasizes national security and stability alongside individual rights and freedoms. While Hun Sen, a pragmatic and centrist leader, views Western political norms with skepticism, he has championed a form of governance that balances social protection with a free-market economy, ensuring equitable distribution of growth's benefits.
Prime Minister Hun Sen's leadership, influenced by Buddhist teachings since his youth, has played a pivotal role in shaping Cambodia's contemporary political landscape. Having lived in a Buddhist temple during his formative years, Hun Sen's approach to governance is deeply rooted in Buddhist principles of equality, inclusivity, and cooperation across different religions. His administration has prioritized religious freedom, tolerance, and the peaceful coexistence of diverse faiths, making these values central to Cambodia's national identity.
Hun Sen's response to crises, such as the COVID-19 pandemic, demonstrated his decisive and compassionate leadership. By selecting Chinese vaccines as the strategic choice for Cambodia and implementing a nationwide vaccination campaign, he placed the health and safety of his people at the forefront. His son, H.E. Dr. Hun Manet, also played a significant role in these efforts, leading medical volunteer initiatives and contributing to Cambodia's public health response. Both leaders have been recognized internationally for their contributions to peace and the promotion of Buddhist values.
Cambodia's "Buddhist democracy" has not only preserved religious harmony within the country but has also positioned Cambodia as a model of peace and inclusivity in the region. The country's commitment to religious tolerance, supported by institutions like the National Committee for the Management and Development of Religions, has helped prevent the religious conflicts seen in neighboring countries, such as Myanmar and Thailand. This commitment has fostered a unique peace ecosystem in Cambodia, where different faiths coexist and contribute to the nation's stability.
Hun Sen's legacy includes the successful implementation of the Win-Win Policy, which brought an end to the civil wars and internal conflicts that plagued Cambodia for decades. This policy, grounded in Buddhist values of non-violence, respect, and justice, facilitated the reintegration of Khmer Rouge forces into the national system, securing peace and paving the way for Cambodia's reconstruction and development. The establishment of the Khmer Rouge Tribunal in 2006, supported by the United Nations, further solidified Cambodia's commitment to justice and national healing, offering a model of peacebuilding for the world.
Under Hun Sen's leadership, Cambodia has not only achieved national peace but has also contributed to international peace efforts. The country's participation in United Nations peacekeeping missions and demining operations across the globe underscores its role as a "small country with a big heart." Cambodia has also shared its peacebuilding experience with the Mekong region and beyond, proposing initiatives like "Two States Toward One Nation" for peace on the Korean Peninsula, which is rooted in Buddhist and humanist values.
In summary, Cambodia's Buddhist democracy has profoundly shaped the nation's socio-cultural, political, and economic landscape. Through a combination of religious principles and pragmatic governance, Cambodia has achieved lasting peace, stability, and prosperity. These achievements, however, are not seen as an endpoint but as the groundwork for an ongoing journey toward ensuring justice, harmony, and well-being for the Cambodian people and beyond.
Thong Mengdavid, Lecturer at Institute for International Studies and Public Policy, Royal University of Phnom Penh and a Research Fellow at the Asian Vision Institute
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