Ivor Callely
Ceist:147 Mr. Callely asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the position in Cambodia; his understanding of the progress of democratisation; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21044/99]
Written Answers. - Political Situation in Cambodia.
As the Deputy will be aware, the Paris Peace Accord in 1991 brought an end to many years of conflict in Cambodia and led to a UN peacekeeping operation in that country. A coalition government formed after the 1993 elections did not last and violent confrontations took place between supporters of both parties. In 1998, however, a peace settlement mediated by Japan was followed by elections. These took place with UN and EU assistance and were overseen by 80 EU observers, including four from Ireland. Five members of the Oireachtas also acted as nationally-funded observers. Violent disturbances which took place when each side rejected the outcome of the election were halted by the intervention of King Norodom Sihanouk, and both parties agreed to work together in the interest of national unity.
This arrangement appears to be working well so far. However, in view of the legacy of bitterness and division, the process of national reconciliation in Cambodia can be expected to face some difficulties.
One of the main issues which remains to be addressed is the trial of a number of Khmer Rouge leaders who are at present in custody. The Government of Cambodia sees it as essential, in the context of the need for the Cambodian people to come to terms with the Khmer Rouge period, that any trials take place on Cambodian soil, in Cambodian courts and under Cambodian law. The UN Secretary General and others favour the establishment of an international tribunal. The Cambodian Government has recently expressed its openness to foreign legal and judicial participation in the trials. It is important that the most appropriate mechanism is found so that both goals, national reconciliation and accountability for Khmer Rouge crimes, can be achieved.