A bill to ban women from wearing short skirts has been condemned by women's rights groups and sparked an outcry in Cambodia on social media.
In Cambodia, a bill that would ban women from wearing short skirts has been condemned by women's rights groups and has sparked outrage on the Internet. The bill includes general rules governing the behavior of Cambodians in public spaces. He would ban women from wearing clothes "too short or too revealing"As for the men, they would not be allowed to go out shirtless.
In response to this proposal, many women shared photos of themselves in swimsuits on social media whilea petition has been set up to oppose this project. It has already received more than 14,000 signatures.
Eng Chandy, Program Director at Gender and development for Cambodia, stated that the law would be a major setback for women's rights in the country. The condition of women in Cambodia is still shaped by the legacy of the Chbab Srey, a traditional code of conduct that obliges women to be submissive and patient. "Even though the code of conduct is not mentioned in formal education, it is still deeply rooted in the Cambodian people ", explained Eng Chandy.
In recent years, the government has cracked down on women wearing "revealing clothes". Performances by singers and actors deemed poorly dressed have also been banned in the country. Recently a woman was sentenced to six months in prison for pornography and indecent disclosure for wearing outfits "provocative"during a clothing sale on Facebook Live.
Women's rights activists fear bill may encourage victim blame in cases of sexual violence. They are also concerned that it will have a disproportionate impact on young women and those working in the entertainment industry. "Women who wear the niqab could also find themselves excluded from public life because the law would prohibit the wearing of face masks in public or private buildingss, "said Eng Chandy.
Hong Reaksmey, the director ofActionAid Cambodia, said the law would empower authorities and "leaves room for interpretation".
The bill says that this law aims to "ensure the management of public order by maintaining order, aesthetic value, sanitation, environmental cleanliness, calm, social stability, preservation of national tradition and the dignity of citizens".
Prohibited activities range from speaking too loudly to begging or sleeping outside. People with mental health problems would not be allowed to walk in public without the presence of a caregiver. These proposals are likely to impact the poorest the most but also to restrict the right to demonstrate.
The law could come into force next year if ministries and the National Assembly approve it.