Published on: April 6, 2026, 01:40h.
Updated on: April 6, 2026, 01:40h.
- New gaming licenses were issued to Cambodian casinos in December, despite ongoing human rights abuse claims
- Links have been established between Cambodian scam centers, casinos, and the state government
A recent report from Amnesty International, a prominent human rights advocacy group based in London, indicates that the Cambodian government is largely ineffective in addressing extensive allegations of human rights violations linked to casinos and various scam centers operating online and via telephone.
In the midst of ongoing territorial disputes with Thailand, where reports indicate that individuals may be enslaved within casinos and scam centers, the single-party Cambodian government continues to support its gaming sector. Amnesty International highlights that Cambodia’s Commercial Gambling Management Commission awarded new gaming permits in December to various casinos known for trafficking violations and serious human rights abuses.
“Our investigation reveals a significant link between Cambodia’s legal casinos and notorious scam operations. While the government claims to dismantle the scamming sector, evidence suggests it is simultaneously authorizing casino developments associated with abusive practices,” stated Montse Ferrer, co-regional director and manager of the Corporate Crimes Project at Amnesty International.
This apparent contradiction raises serious questions regarding the legitimacy granted to companies implicated in severe abuses. Cambodian authorities must clarify why establishments linked to trafficking and torture continue to receive licenses. Each day these casinos remain open increases the risk of human rights violations for individuals present at these sites,” added Ferrer.
Most casinos in Cambodia are strategically located near the Thai frontier, targeting Thai gamblers who face prohibitions on most gambling activities.
Government Connections
While accusations of human rights violations against Cambodian casinos are not new, the recent findings from Amnesty International expose persistent ties between these gaming facilities and the Cambodian People’s Party.
Numerous survivors of forced labor have recounted experiences of confinement and torture within scam centers. Those who disobey casino managers face threats of electric shock and other cruel punishments.
“The guards would come in and activate the shock batons. It produced a terrifying noise that caused the children in the room to cry,” recounted one survivor.
Many of these survivors reported being trafficked into Cambodia as minors.
Casino Misconduct
Amnesty International has identified several casinos allegedly involved in human rights violations, including Casino Kyom, Marian International, Peak Casino, Majestic Hotel & Casino, Long Feng Xuan Casino, Huang International, and Golden Sea Casino.
The Cambodian authorities must promptly revoke the gaming licenses of these casinos and launch a thorough, independent, and transparent inquiry into reported violations. They should also investigate everyone suspected of accountability for crimes against international law or significant human rights abuses, including casino owners, financiers, and operators.”
Cambodia reaps economic benefits from casinos and scam centers through tax revenue and increased capital influx, alongside property leasing. However, these operations are also intertwined with political corruption.