A Snapshot of the Gold Mining Industry in Cambodia: Rights Violations, and Environmental Damage

ABSTRACTED FROM EXECUTIVE SUMMARY: While Cambodians have been operating small-scale “artisanal” mines, the corporate takeover of mining resources has allowed many of the industry’s party-elite progenitors to maximize profits and exploitation of natural resources while effectively minimizing accountability. The expansion, mechanization, and chemicalization of the industry has exponentially increased the risk of land grabbing, environmental damage, and occupational health and safety for Cambodia’s citizens and communities. This research paper attempts to provide insights into various aspects of the gold mining sector: a review of the history of the sector since its corporatization, an analysis of state and civil society responses, and an assessment of the overall health of the sector as it stands in 2023. The five case studies in this report will illustrate the current reality of the sector and its various stakeholders, including local populations, industry actors, and civil society members. After 20 years of continued corporatization of the gold mining industry, there are sadly very few signs of improvements in policy and practice, with respect to human rights and land rights, environmental protection, transparency, and accountability.

Available for download

Report