Chhim Sithar, a union leader in Cambodia, was released from prison after serving time for her involvement in a strike against the country’s largest casino, NagaWorld. The strike, which began in December 2021, was in protest of mass layoffs and alleged union-busting at the casino. Chhim Sithar was sentenced to two years in prison for incitement to commit a felony, but she has vowed to continue leading the labor action until justice is achieved.
Despite facing adversity during her time in prison, including overcrowding and limited access to basic necessities, Chhim Sithar remains undeterred in her commitment to the strike. She emphasized the importance of fighting for union rights and the right to unionize, stating that the fear of losing these rights is greater than the fear of being imprisoned. She made it clear that the struggle will continue until justice is served for the workers at NagaWorld.
Following Chhim Sithar’s arrest, some dismissed workers continued to protest, calling for her release and the reinstatement of their jobs. However, the Ministry of Labor and Vocational Training reported that over 200 workers had accepted compensation under labor laws and dropped their demands. Despite harassment and suppression from authorities, including judicial harassment and physical assaults, the strike at NagaWorld continues in Phnom Penh.
NagaWorld, owned by a company controlled by the family of a Malaysian billionaire, has been at the center of this labor dispute. Chhim Sithar expressed gratitude to international unions and supporters for their solidarity and urged them to continue advocating for workers’ rights at the company. She called on the government and the company to recognize union rights and worker rights in the workplace, emphasizing the importance of international support in achieving justice.
This labor action at NagaWorld is a notable departure from previous union actions in Cambodia, which were typically held in outlying areas or industrial estates. The high-profile nature of the protest in the capital attracted police intervention, at times resulting in violence. Chhim Sithar’s efforts were recognized by the U.S. State Department, which awarded her with its annual Human Rights Defender Award. The government of Cambodia has faced criticism for using the judicial system to target critics and political opponents.
As Chhim Sithar resumes her role as a union leader after her release from prison, she remains committed to the fight for workers’ rights at NagaWorld. She calls for continued support from the international community and emphasizes the importance of holding the government and the company accountable for recognizing union rights and ensuring justice for the workers. The ongoing struggle at NagaWorld serves as a reminder of the challenges faced by labor activists in Cambodia and the importance of solidarity in advancing workers’ rights.
