Cambodia National Rescue Party

The Cambodia National Rescue Party was a political organisation that sought to participate in Cambodia's national electoral process as the primary opposition to the ruling Cambodian People's Party. Its core activities included developing policy platforms focused on democratic reform, human rights protection, and economic justice, and presenting these platforms to voters during election campaigns. The party also engaged in grassroots mobilisation, organising rallies and outreach efforts to communicate its message to citizens across the country. In addition to electoral competition, it provided a channel for constituents to voice concerns and to advocate for legislative changes through its representation in the National Assembly when it held seats. The party’s work was centred on promoting a multiparty system and checking executive power within Cambodia’s political framework.

Before its dissolution, the Cambodia National Rescue Party was recognised as the largest opposition party in Cambodia, drawing support from various social and regional groups throughout the country. It was formed in 2012 through the merger of the Sam Rainsy Party and the Human Rights Party, uniting two established opposition movements under a single leadership that included Kem Sokha and Sam Rainsy. The party held a significant number of seats in the National Assembly following the 2013 general elections, which gave it a formal role in legislative oversight and debate. Its dissolution in November 2017 by the Cambodian Supreme Court removed its legal status and ended its ability to field candidates in subsequent elections. Despite its formal end, the party’s former members and supporters continued to be referenced in discussions about Cambodia’s political landscape and opposition activity.