Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
1999
Cambodia finally joins Asean after a two-year delay, taking its place among the family of
Southeast Asian nations, who welcome the country back onto the world stage.
2000
The Cambodian Freedom Fighters (CFF) launch an 'assault' on Phnom Penh. Backed by
Cambodian-American dissidents, the attackers are lightly armed, poorly trained and polit-
ically inexperienced.
2002
Cambodia holds its first ever local elections at commune level, a tentative step towards dis-
mantling the old communist system of control and bringing grass-roots democracy to the
country.
2003
The CPP wins the election, but political infighting prevents the formation of the new gov-
ernment for almost a year until the old coalition with Funcinpec is revived.
2004
In a move that catches observers by surprise, King Sihanouk abdicates from the throne
and is succeeded by his son King Sihamoni, a popular choice as Sihamoni has steered
clear of politics.
2005
Cambodia joins the WTO, opening its markets to free trade, but many commentators feel it
could be counterproductive, as the economy is so small and there is no more protection for
domestic producers.
2006
Lawsuits and counter-lawsuits see political leaders moving from conflict to courtroom in
the new Cambodia. The revolving doors stop with opposition leader Sam Rainsy back in
the country and Prince Ranariddh out.
2007
Royalist party Funcinpec continues to implode in the face of conflict, intrigue and defec-
tions, with democrats joining Sam Rainsy, loyalists joining the new Norodom Ranariddh
Party and others joining the CPP.
