CCHR's Public Forum on Human Rights and Development for indigenous communities affected by illegal land grabbing

CAMBODIAN CENTER FOR HUMAN RIGHTS

MEDIA ALERT
For immediate release – Rattanakiri, June 16, 2010

Public Forum on Human Rights and Development for indigenous communities affected by illegal land grabbing

Since 2004 around 600 families from indigenous communities have been affected by illegal land grabbing and government granted land concessions totaling over 25 000 hectors in Rattanakiri Province. Many have been forced evicted from their land and their homes, resulting in the deterioration of their traditional way of life and culture. The indigenous communities remain in conflict with the government and private companies stealing their land and are seeking peaceful resolutions.

On the 17 June 2010 the indigenous communities, including representatives from the Charaiy, Phnorng and Tum Poun people, will have an opportunity to raise their concerns directly with parliamentarians, local authorities, civil societies, community members, and other stakeholders at a Public Forum on “Human Rights and Development” in Rattanatikiri Province. The Public Forum will consider the issues and disputes faced by the local indigenous communities relating to economic land concessions, and illegal land grabbing as they press for peaceful resolutions to the conflicts.

Kuch Moly, Funcinpec Party; Yem Punhrith, Human Rights Party; Long Ry, Sam Rainsy Party – all parliamentarians - together with Sok Hom, Provincial Council, and Ban Bunna from Adhoc have confirmed attendance at the Public Forum. Around 300 people from the indigenous communities are expected to attend.

The Public Forum will take place on June 17, 2010, from 8.a.m. to 11.30 a.m. at Adhoc’s office in village III, Sangkat Laban Siek, Banlung City, Rattanakiri Province.

For further information, please contact :

Chhim Savuth
Project Coordinator, CCHR
Tel: +855 (12) 89 98 58
email: savuth@cchrcambodia.org