Union leader Chhim Sithar was released from prison in Cambodia on Monday after serving a sentence related to her involvement in a strike held against NagaWorld, the country’s biggest casino. Sithar, who had been leading a strike by hundreds of workers protesting mass layoffs and alleged union-busting at the casino, was sentenced in May 2023 to two years in prison for incitement to commit a felony. Her arrest came after a demonstration by dismissed employees demanding their jobs back in January 2022, following the casino’s decision to fire 373 workers due to financial difficulties during the coronavirus pandemic.
After her release, Chhim Sithar affirmed her commitment to leading the strike until justice is achieved. Despite facing challenges and hardships during her time in prison, she expressed determination to continue advocating for union rights at NagaWorld. Sithar emphasized the importance of seeking justice for the workers involved in the labor action, noting that their struggle will persist until their demands are met.
The union leader’s arrest had sparked ongoing protests by dismissed workers calling for her release and reinstatement of their jobs. While some workers accepted compensation and dropped their demands, Sithar’s dedication to the cause remained unwavering. Human rights organization LICADHO highlighted the continued strike led by the Labor Rights Supported Union (LRSU) despite attempts by authorities to suppress it.
Chhim Sithar also urged the international community to support their cause, thanking unions and supporters for their solidarity. She called for recognition of union and worker rights by both the government and the company, encouraging ongoing advocacy at international forums such as the U.N.’s International Labor Organization. The high-profile nature of the NagaWorld workers’ protest in the capital, Phnom Penh, drew attention to labor issues in Cambodia, where previous labor union actions were more localized.
The U.S. State Department previously honored Chhim Sithar with its Human Rights Defender Award, recognizing her as a courageous advocate for workers’ rights in Cambodia. While the country’s government has faced criticism for its treatment of critics and political opponents, Sithar’s release marks a continuation of efforts to push for labor rights and justice in the nation’s labor landscape.
