The Cambodia Human Rights Committee (CHRC) has sent a formal letter to The Wall Street Journal regarding its use of the term "Scambodia" to refer to the Kingdom of Cambodia.

Online scamming is a global issue that requires a collective international and regional effort to combat and prevent. While the actions of ...

Online scamming is a global issue that requires a collective international and regional effort to combat and prevent. While the actions of online scam criminals and the officials who collude with them are distinct legal and criminal matters, labeling an entire nation of nearly 18 million people with a derogatory name is a severe insult to the honor of my country and my people. An article published by The Wall Street Journal on April 19, 2026, demonstrates a lack of professional journalism and ethics. Such reporting can lead to misunderstanding and discrimination, while severely impacting the rights, dignity, and honor of Cambodia and its nearly 18 million citizens—rights which are guaranteed and protected by the United Nations Charter and International Human Rights Law.

While freedom of expression and freedom of the press play a vital role in society, these freedoms must be exercised with responsibility and respect for individual dignity, as stipulated in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights. News headlines, though intended to attract attention, should not devolve into character assassination, exaggeration, or distortion of the truth. Doing so undermines the credibility and value of press freedom. Human rights—specifically the right to honor, dignity, and respect—are the fundamental aspirations of every individual and should not be subjected to insults in any form, including the language used in news articles or reports. In light of this serious violation and the impact on the honor and fundamental rights of the nation and the Cambodian people, the Cambodia Human Rights Committee (CHRC) requests that The Wall Street Journal: Immediately remove the word "Scambodia" from its article. Issue a correction or clarification that reflects accurate and balanced reporting. Refrain from using insulting language in future publications. Issue an official apology for the use of such a headline. Revise the headline to ensure it is accurate, balanced, and non-discriminatory.