Cambodia

According to Angkor Enterprise, from Jan-Apr 2026, Angkor Archaeological Park saw 322,004 international visitors (-32.1% YoY). Ticket sales generated around $15.5 million USD during this period (-30.2% YoY)

The Tourism Minister appointed Thim Sereyvuth as the new Director of the Siem Reap Provincial Department of Tourism, tasking him with enhancing the province's brand identity through unique cultural and culinary storytelling. The new director is expected to coordinate with the private sector and content creators to improve public services, attract tourism investment, and develop night-time experiences in Angkor and Siem Reap city

The Philippines has offered to mediate between Thailand and Cambodia, with a potential trilateral meeting being explored during the 48th ASEAN Summit in Cebu from 6-8 May

The Ministry of Environment and UN-Habitat signed an MoU to strengthen cooperation on natural resource management, social protection, and sustainable development. The partnership focuses on capacity building, resource mobilisation, and enhancing resilience in coastal and urban areas. The agreement supports Cambodia’s environmental strategic framework, which aims for carbon neutrality by 2050, increased forest coverage, and a 55% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions by 2035 as outlined in the Third Nationally Determined Contribution

During a legislative visit to the Spanish Parliament marking 75 years of diplomatic ties, Spain and the EU expressed support for a peaceful resolution to the Cambodia-Thailand border dispute based on international law. The Cambodian delegation discussed strengthening cooperation in trade, clean energy, and agriculture, while also addressing concerns regarding the safety of border residents and World Heritage sites. The 2 countries further committed to mutual international support, including Spain's bid for ASEAN Inter-Parliamentary Assembly (AIPA) observer status and Cambodia's leadership of the 2026 International Speakers' Conference

On 29 Apr, the Norwegian-flagged cruise ship Viking Orion docked at Sihanoukville Autonomous Port, arriving from Thailand with 822 international tourists and 467 crew members. The majority of passengers (629) are U.S. citizens. While the majority of passengers spent their time exploring local Sihanoukville landmarks, including fishing villages, markets, and pagodas, a small group of 33 travellers headed to Siem Reap to visit the Angkor temples

The Minister of Tourism led a Cambodia Tourism Marketing and Promotion Board (CTB) meeting to review Q1 2026 achievements and establish strategies for Q2. Key initiatives include the "Visit Cambodia in the Green Season" campaign (May-Oct) and a temporary visa exemption for Chinese citizens with PRC passports, running from 15 Jun-15 Oct 2026. The board aims to diversify markets and enhance Cambodia's global profile, specifically leveraging the 20th Francophonie Summit in Nov

The Kong MMA training centre, currently under construction on Koh Rong by Canadian martial artist Dave Leduc, is poised to become a landmark destination for Kun Khmer and mixed martial arts. This facility will offer structured programmes for both professional fighters and tourists, aiming to attract tens of thousands of visitors to the island’s beaches. Supported by the Kun Khmer Federation, the project includes future plans for a dedicated competition arena to host global sporting events

The World Bank approved $300 million USD in financing to enhance Cambodia’s transport network and logistics capacity, focusing on the Asian Highway 21 (AH21) corridor. The initiative will be rolled out in 2 phases, with an initial $150 million USD allocated to upgrade 247km of infrastructure and strengthen trade facilitation. By improving this vital link between Cambodia’s northeastern provinces and Vietnam, the programme aims to benefit 1.6 million people, reduce transport costs, and attract private investment in agribusiness, tourism, and cold chains. The Minister of Public Works and Transport (MPWT) said that the project seeks to bolster regional connectivity and market access for local farmers and traders while supporting inclusive economic growth

On 29 Apr, the Deputy Prime Minister met with Grab Holdings Group President to discuss the company’s expansion and its role in Cambodia’s digital economy. Aligning with Phase 1 of the government’s Pentagonal Strategy, Grab plans to broaden its service coverage and explore new financing options for its partners. The meeting also focused on green development, with Grab expressing interest in supporting clean energy initiatives within the transport sector. The Council for the Development of Cambodia (CDC) reaffirmed its commitment to facilitating Grab’s ongoing and future investment projects to enhance user convenience and market reach

The Cambodia Tourism Board (CTB) and Singapore Airlines (SIA) have entered a 9-month partnership, backed by a collective $140,000 USD investment. The agreement focuses on joint marketing and familiarisation trips targeting markets in Australia, France, and Singapore, with plans to expand reach into India over the longer term. The MoU aims to reshape international perceptions of Cambodia and boost arrivals for the upcoming "Visit Cambodia in the Green Season" campaign (May-Oct 2026)

Effective from 29 Apr, the Cambodian Ministry of Commerce increased retail fuel prices, with Regular Gasoline (Gasoline 92) rising to 5,150 riels per litre and Diesel Fuel (Gasoil 10ppm) reaching 5,650 riels per litre. These rates will remain in place until the next official update. The rates include government subsidies designed to help citizens manage costs amidst rising international market prices

The Prime Minister Hun Manet highlighted the role of Geographical Indication (GI) and collective brands in driving economic growth and supporting the Pentagonal Strategy Phase 1. Managed by a 17-ministry national committee, Cambodia has registered 78 GI products, including Kampot pepper, Kampong Speu palm sugar, and Koh Kong mud crab, alongside collective marks like Phnom Penh kuy teav. These intellectual property protections create premium identities for local goods, enhancing export capacity to high-value international markets and boosting cultural tourism

The Middle East crisis is impacting Cambodian tourism, with disrupted Gulf transit hubs causing a 32% drop in visitors to Angkor and a 30% revenue decline in Q1 2026. According to a board member of Smiling Gecko Singapore, higher airfares and unreliable routes have compressed the traditional European market, leading to a shift towards regional travellers from Singapore, Malaysia, and Vietnam who typically spend less and stay for shorter periods. Booking windows have also shortened, with European guests now committing only 8-10 weeks in advance. This downturn directly threatens funding for local humanitarian projects, and while domestic tourism offers some relief, it cannot offset the loss of long-haul visitors, exposing Cambodia's structural over-dependence on a limited number of international flight connections

The US Treasury Department has sanctioned Cambodian Senator Kok An, labelling him a "scam centre kingpin" for allegedly protecting a network of fraudulent compounds that defrauded Americans of millions of dollars. The US claims these operations, housed in retrofitted casinos and office parks, often utilise human trafficking victims forced into criminal activity under threat of violence. While Kok An denies all knowledge of scamming, official Cambodian business records link him to 7 of the sanctioned firms

According to the Minister of Economy and Finance, Cambodia’s economy is projected to grow by 5% in 2026, a slight decrease from 5.2% in 2025, with GDP reaching $53.8 billion USD and GDP per capita rising to $3,020 USD. The Minister attributed this cooling to external shocks and border issues with Thailand, alongside global uncertainties. While the economy remains reliant on garments, tourism, and agriculture, experts advocate for a strategic shift towards renewable energy, digital services, and high-value manufacturing

“The Smile of Angkor” exhibition in Beijing covers over 2,000 square metres and utilizes projection, sound, spatial design, and holographic performances to recreate the ancient Khmer Empire. The project was developed through a partnership between Cambodian and Chinese entities, including X Capital. Since its launch in Jan 2026, the exhibition has generated around 40 million online impressions within its first 2 months. The exhibition will run in Beijing until Jun 2026, with plans to tour other Chinese provinces and potentially expand internationally

The Cambodian government and media have condemned a Wall Street Journal report that used the derogatory term "Scambodia" to describe the country’s cybercrime challenges. The Information Minister and the Cambodian Human Rights Committee officially rejected the label as "insulting" and "sensationalist," arguing it fosters discrimination and ignores the state's ongoing crackdowns on scam operations. During a Khmer Times podcast, editors highlighted that such headlines damage Cambodia’s economy and tourism by overshadowing law enforcement efforts with a single negative narrative. Officials and local journalists are calling for more balanced, on-the-ground reporting and greater government transparency to ensure international perceptions accurately reflect the country's progress

On 27 Apr, the U.S. Attorney for the District of Columbia highlighted that Cambodia remains a primary focus for anti-fraud efforts, citing reports that scam revenue may account for 40%-60% of the nation's GDP. She confirmed that the U.S. has restrained over $700 million USD in cryptocurrency tied to regional "pig butchering" and forced-labour schemes. While acknowledging recent raids by Cambodian authorities on scam compounds, she noted the U.S. is "waiting to see" if these actions lead to a genuine reduction in crime

On 30 Apr, the Ministry of Tourism and the Chinese Embassy will host a joint martial arts showcase at the North of Bayon Temple in Siem Reap as part of the Cambodia-China Tourism Year 2026. The event featured traditional Cambodian disciplines including Kun Lbokator, Yuth Kun Khorm, and Kun Khmer, alongside Chinese Shaolin Kung Fu and Tai Chi

The Thai Defence Minister confirmed that border checkpoints with Cambodia will remain closed until Cambodia adheres to the Dec 2025 ceasefire agreement. This stance follows the National Security Council's decision to scrap MoU44, ending the long-standing maritime border demarcation agreement and shifting to the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (Unclos) as the primary legal framework. While the Royal Thai Navy maintains full operational intensity to protect maritime sovereignty, official bilateral mechanisms such as the Regional Border Committee remain functional. The Ministry also plans to bolster national self-reliance through domestic industry promotion and infrastructure upgrades for border troops, while dismissing the need for "personal-level" diplomatic talks

The Cambodian Cabinet approved a draft law requiring all males aged 18-25 to complete 2 years of mandatory military service, replacing an unimplemented 2006 framework. Triggered by deadly border clashes with Thailand in 2025, the legislation aims to address personnel shortages and modernise the armed forces. Under the new rules, women may serve voluntarily, while those who have completed their service will remain on the reserve list until age 45. The Prime Minister has prioritised this transition to a conscripted force to ensure a more professional defence capability, with the law set for final ratification by the National Assembly and the King

The Cambodia Investment Board approved a $300 million USD project by Peninsula Imperial Palace Resort Hotel Co Ltd to construct a 5-star hotel in Bavet City, Svay Rieng province. Designated as a Qualified Investment Project (QIP), the development will feature 1,341 rooms and is expected to generate over 2,000 local jobs. This project accounts for the entirety of the $300 million USD invested in the tourism sector during Q1 2026

The Chinese Foreign Minister called for the "complete eradication" of scam centres and cross-border fraud during high-level talks in Phnom Penh. The Prime Minister vowed to "clean out" the illicit industry, noting its damage to Cambodia's international reputation and economy. The Foreign Minister underlined the "unbreakable bond" between the 2 nations, discussing expanded cooperation in security, trade, and infrastructure. Additionally, China offered to facilitate dialogue to normalise relations between Cambodia and Thailand following border clashes in 2025

On 22 Apr, the Tourism Minister met with the Town Entertainment Group CEO to discuss a strategic partnership aimed at boosting Cambodia’s global tourism profile. The meeting focused on a proposed MoU that would see the entertainment firm produce promotional content and cultural events, including sports and arts programmes, to attract international visitors

On 21 Apr, the Cambodian Deputy Prime Minister and World Bank officials met to finalise an emergency intervention package aimed at mitigating the economic fallout from the Middle East conflict. Policy analysts warn that prolonged conflict will inevitably drive up transportation and food costs across all sectors. The World Bank has reaffirmed its commitment to providing the "knowledge bank" expertise and financing necessary to maintain Cambodia’s long-term economic resilience

The Cambodian Deputy Prime Minister welcomed the newly appointed Lao Ambassador on 22 Apr to discuss strengthening the strategic bond between the 2 neighbouring nations. During the high-level meeting, both parties pledged to expand bilateral cooperation across key sectors including trade, regional security, and cross-border initiatives. The discussions also focused on enhancing connectivity within the ASEAN framework, with Cambodia confirming its full support for the Ambassador’s mission to further solidify long-standing diplomatic relations and mutual interests

Cambodia is preparing to launch the "Visit Cambodia in the Green Season" campaign, scheduled to run from May-Oct 2026, aiming to transform the rainy months into a vibrant period for sustainable tourism. The Ministry of Tourism seeks to attract cost-conscious international and domestic travellers through discounted rates and promotional packages. The initiative builds on a 2025 pilot phase, which saw 9.46 million visitors between May-Oct 2025 (+64.7% YoY)

According to Angkor Enterprise, in Q1 2026, Cambodia’s Angkor Wat saw the US emerge as its top international tourist source with 38,407 visitors, followed by the UK (31,358), France (30,322), Germany (18,334), Japan (13,870), and Australia (13,282). In Q1 ticket sales for Koh Ker temple, Beng Mealea temple, Kbal Spean mountain, and boat trips, also generated $448,236 USD

According to data from the General Department of Customs and Excise (GDCE), Cambodia’s oil and fuel imports exceeded $1 billion USD in Q1 2026 (+5% YoY) and established energy as the nation's largest import category at 11.4% of total trade. Mar 2026 saw a particularly sharp surge, with expenditure rising 32.6% YoY to $404 million USD

The Chinese Foreign Minister and the Defence Minister arrived in Phnom Penh on 23 Apr to co-chair the inaugural "2+2" Strategic Dialogue Mechanism alongside Cambodian counterparts. During the visit, the Chinese dignitaries will meet with the Acting Head of State and the Prime Minister, with further discussions scheduled for 24 Apr to advance cooperation frameworks and regional stability

The Phnom Penh Capital Administration’s free bus service provided travel for 119,490 citizens over a 6-day period from 12 Apr. This initiative saw a 39% YoY increase in passenger volume, resulting in a collective saving of around $3 million USD for the public

The Cambodia Tourism Board (CTB) launched the "Location Scouting Programme" to position the country as a premier destination for international film, television, and commercial productions. Under the leadership of CEO Kim Minea, the initiative provides global filmmakers with up to 5 days of covered on-ground expenses, including accommodation, transport, and permit fees, to explore Cambodia's diverse landscapes and heritage sites. Applications for the programme are prioritised based on their potential for international reach and local economic impact

The Battambang provincial authorities and the Khmer Volunteer Athletics Federation will host the "Run for Love" charity event on 26 Apr to raise funds for frontline soldiers stationed along the border. Participants can register in person or online

The Cambodian Tourism Minister and the Czech Ambassador discussed deepening bilateral tourism ties. Both parties pledged to launch joint promotional campaigns and share development expertise to boost reciprocal visitor numbers. The Ambassador commended Cambodia’s tourism progress over the past 15 years, while Minister Hak noted a steady rise in Czech arrivals

According to the Ministry of Tourism, Cambodia recorded over 21 million visitors during the 3-day Khmer New Year holiday, including 19.9 million day-trippers, 1.14 million domestic overnight tourists, and 71,000 international travellers. Phnom Penh was the most popular destination with 4.4 million visitors, followed by Kampong Cham with 4.17 million, Prey Veng with 2.32 million, Siem Reap with 1.79 million, and Kampong Speu with 1.71 million

According to the Provincial Tourism Department, Siem Reap welcomed 1,842,438 visitors during the 3-day Khmer New Year period, including around 1,837,000 local residents and domestic tourists, while international arrivals reached 5,438

Phnom Penh’s “Nokor Sangkranta” festival, held from 14-19 Apr, drew over 4.3 million visitors during its first 4 days. According to the Deputy Director and spokesperson for Phnom Penh Municipal Hall, a total of 1,384,511 people attended the event on the fourth day, including 1,374,720 local visitors, and 9,791 international tourists. On the first day of the New Year celebrations, 983,080 people participated, including 7,068 foreign tourists, increasing to 1,565,367 on the second day, and 1,827,990 participants on the third day

According to the Director of the Provincial Department of Tourism, Kampot attracted 432,816 visitors during the Khmer New Year holiday period, including 430,426 domestic tourists and 2,390 international visitors. 286,030 people participated in Sangkranta festivities, while 146,786 people visited specific attractions and community-based tourism sites

According to the data from the provincial Department of Tourism, during the 3-day Khmer New Year celebrations, Svay Rieng province welcomed 407,969 visitors, with attendance peaking on the final day at 186,590 people, including 390 foreign nationals. On the first day (14 Apr), the province welcomed 100,839 visitors, increasing to around 120,540 on the second day

Kampong Cham Province hosted 4,178,623 visitors during the Khmer New Year, with the number of domestic tourists +52% YoY, and international arrivals +2% YoY. On 16 Apr, the province recorded 1,709,655 visitors, including 105 foreign tourists, and 1,709,550 domestic travellers. The capital, Kampong Cham city, attracted the largest share, with 1,565,584 domestic visitors and 43 international tourists. Meanwhile, Sangkranta events held across various districts drew a total of 78,725 visitors. Tourist resorts across the province welcomed 65,618 visitors, including 49 foreigners. Only 728 domestic tourists and 13 international visitors opted for overnight stays

According to the Provincial Department of Tourism, Ratanakkiri province welcomed 47,655 visitors during the 2026 Khmer New Year (14-16 Apr), +5% YoY. The figures included 770 international guests and nearly 47,000 domestic tourists, while an additional 100,000 residents travelled locally to attend the "Ratanakkiri Sangkran" festivities and concerts. Key attractions such as Boeung Kanseng drew large crowds with new amenities like zip lines and sculpture parks

According to official data released by the Ministry of Environment, on 15 Apr, Cambodia’s air quality was rated as "very good", with pollution levels remaining well below national safety limits. The Air Quality Index (AQI) indicates a minimal health risk to the public. The Ministry of Environment has urged citizens to prevent forest fires and the burning of waste, plastics, and agricultural materials

On 14 Apr, Cambodia commenced its 3-day Khmer New Year celebrations. In a commemorative message, the Prime Minister vowed to defend territorial integrity and accelerate "vigorous reforms" throughout 2026 to ensure economic stability amidst global uncertainty. The Prime Minister emphasised national self-reliance and resilience as key strategies for the future

Retail fuel prices in Cambodia have decreased from the rates announced on 7 Apr, with regular gasoline (Gasoline 92) now priced at 5,100 riel per litre and diesel (Gasoil 10ppm) at 6,400 riel per litre. To alleviate the cost of living for citizens, the government is actively subsidising these costs by reducing special taxes and import duties on both fuel types

On 14 Apr, Kampong Cham Province attracted nearly 1 million visitors, including 958,645 domestic tourists and 155 international guests, for the Khmer New Year celebrations. Local authorities organised cultural music performances and traditional games. The festivities also featured an exhibition of over 100 stalls highlighting local handicrafts, agricultural goods, and businesses, demonstrating the province's effective event organisation and economic appeal

The Ministry of Tourism has signed an MoU with the French organisation CodeauKhmer to promote Cambodia’s ecotourism to French and European travellers. Supported by major French state energy enterprises like EDF-GDF, the initiative encourages employees to holiday in Cambodia while leveraging organisational networks to boost arrivals, particularly during the upcoming green season

The Bermuda-flagged cruise ship Piano Land docked at Sihanoukville Autonomous Port on 12 Apr for a 1-day visit, carrying 996 international passengers, including 961 Chinese nationals and 501 crew members. The vessel's stop allowed tourists to visit local fishing villages, markets, and pagodas

Siem Reap authorities have implemented strict order and hygiene measures in the Pub Street district to prepare for the Sankranta festival. The operation focused on regulating street vending and clearing pavements to ensure safety and enhance the city's appearance for the Khmer New Year. The area closes to traffic at 6pm for market stalls, which must be cleared by 6am to allow pedestrian access

On 11 Apr, the Cambodian Prime Minister called for an immediate and sincere resumption of border negotiations with Thailand. Although a ceasefire was signed in late Dec, tensions persist over the 800km frontier. While Cambodia declares itself "fully ready" for talks to ensure long-term peace, Thailand’s Foreign Ministry maintains it is not yet prepared to return to the table due to internal procedures. Currently, both nations trade accusations of truce violations, with Cambodia demanding the withdrawal of Thai forces from allegedly captured border provinces

The international cruise ship Viking Venus docked at Sihanoukville Autonomous Port for 2 days, carrying nearly 1,400 individuals, including 861 primarily American tourists and 470 crew members. The vessel arrived from Thailand and is scheduled to depart for Vietnam on 11 Apr after passengers visited key attractions across Preah Sihanouk province

The Ministry of Tourism and the UNDP, supported by the Coca-Cola Foundation, have launched the "River Clean-up Campaign" to combat plastic pollution and promote sustainable tourism across Cambodia’s waterways. The initiative addresses the waste challenge of the city generating 4,200 tonnes of daily solid waste, 20% of which is plastic. By adopting the 4Rs approach, the campaign seeks to foster partnerships between the government, citizens, and the private sector to protect the nation's rivers and community livelihoods

The World Bank has moderated Cambodia’s GDP growth forecast for 2026 to 3.9%, a decrease from its previous projection and the 4.8% growth recorded in 2025. While this slowdown is attributed to global energy shocks and geopolitical uncertainty, Cambodia still maintains the second-highest growth rate among its neighbours and expects a rebound to 4.9% in 2027. The country’s economic outlook remains supported by low debt levels, rising FDI, and a strategic focus on digital infrastructure and AI adoption to improve industrial productivity

On 10 Apr, Cambodian Tourism Minister and Czech Ambassador pledged to strengthen bilateral ties through joint promotional campaigns and the exchange of development expertise to boost reciprocal tourist flows. Both parties aim to leverage Cambodia's political stability to attract more Czech visitors. The Czech Ambassador emphasised the need for deeper insights into the travel preferences of Czech citizens to better cater to this growing market

King Norodom Sihamoni of Cambodia has been diagnosed with prostate cancer and will undergo treatment in Beijing, where he is expected to be hospitalised for up to 2 months. The 72-year-old monarch confirmed the diagnosis in a statement released on 10 Apr

On 6 Apr, ABA Bank and the Cambodia Amanah Takaful Association (CATA) signed an MoU to launch faith-aligned financial services for Cambodia’s Muslim community. This partnership introduces the Hajj Fund mobile app, which utilises ABA PayWay as its exclusive gateway for secure pilgrimage savings via KHQR and bank cards. Additionally, ABA has launched an "Interest-Free Mode" within its mobile app, allowing users to convert their savings accounts to comply with Islamic principles, any interest accrued is automatically redirected to CATA’s charitable initiatives

The Ministry of Tourism has directed all operators to publicly display clear prices and conditions for products and services during the Khmer New Year holiday from 14-16 Apr. Aligned with the “Clean City, Clean Resort, Good Service and Good Hospitality” campaign, businesses must ensure reasonable pricing, provide adequate signposted parking, and maintain high hygiene standards, particularly regarding restroom cleanliness. Premises should be decorated with national flags, cultural elements, and portraits of the 3 leaders. Furthermore, operators must cooperate with authorities on security and public order while promoting national tourism slogans to encourage a welcoming environment for all visitors

The Cambodian government has capped retail fuel prices at 5,500 riel per litre for regular gasoline and 8,200 riel for diesel, effective 7 Apr. This intervention includes cutting additional taxes to 0 and lowering special and value-added taxes on both fuel types. By absorbing the remaining tax burden (6% for gasoline and 10% for diesel), the government aims to shield citizens from market volatility and high shipping costs while maintaining domestic price stability

The Cambodian Ministry of Tourism and the UN have established a formal agreement to enhance tourism governance and accelerate progress towards Sustainable Development Goals. During a 6 Apr meeting, the Minister and UN Resident Coordinator prioritised green tourism standards, climate resilience, and community-based tourism initiatives aimed at improving livelihoods for women and youth. The partnership focuses on human resource development through technical support in hospitality, digital skills, and "green competencies"

The Ministry of Culture and Fine Arts is launching free ancestral skills training in May across 13 rural locations in 9 provinces, targeting youth from impoverished and vulnerable backgrounds. Participants from IDPoor households will receive a monthly stipend of $70 USD, provided they maintain full-time attendance. The curriculum, which was integrated into the National Social Assistance Programme in late 2023, covers traditional crafts such as silk weaving, stone carving, pottery, and silver engraving. The 2024-2025 cycle saw 111 students graduate

Tovtrip, Cambodia’s first comprehensive travel "super app", debuted at Echelon Singapore 2026 as a digital ecosystem integrating flights, hotels, transport, and local activities. With over 600 registered merchants, the platform aims to transition Cambodia’s tourism sector from offline bookings to a digital economy, providing small businesses with greater visibility and using data analytics to inform national tourism strategies. As the internal market is projected to reach $2.78 billion USD by 2025, Tovtrip targets 8,500 active users and $700,000 USD in revenue by 2026. The app supports domestic language and payment preferences to empower verified local vendors and improve accessibility to emerging destinations across the country

An investigation by Amnesty International has linked 12 licensed Cambodian casinos to scamming compounds involving human trafficking, forced labour, and the torture of adults and children. Despite government claims of a crackdown, the Commercial Gambling Management Commission approved licences for properties, including Crown Resorts and Majestic, in late 2025 and early 2026, at the same time documented abuses were occurring on-site. Survivors reported being held captive and assaulted with electric shock batons within these complexes. The organisation is now calling for the immediate suspension of these gambling licences and an independent investigation into the state’s failure to prevent these systemic human rights violations