PHNOM PENH — Cambodia’s Ministry of Information has ignited debate across the media industry with a new rule requiring every editor in chief to hold a journalism degree, a shift that critics say could sideline experienced newsroom leaders and squeeze out smaller outlets already struggling to survive.

The directive, issued on November 27, sets out broad professional standards for anyone working in media or audiovisual production. Its reach extends far beyond traditional newsrooms, covering publishing houses, advertising agencies, journalist associations, independent reporters, content creators, celebrities, and influencers.

Under the new rules, anyone who wants to establish a media outlet must obtain a license from the ministry and present a clear management structure. For print and online publications, including newspapers, magazines, newsletters, and website-based outlets, the ministry expects a publishing director, an owner or editor, an editor in chief, and administrative, finance, marketing, and press departments.

The directive also introduces qualification standards for key roles. Editors in chief must be at least 25 years old and hold a bachelor’s degree or equivalent. Publishers, program directors, and editors in chief are additionally required to present either a certificate in journalism or audiovisual studies from a ministry-recognized institution or pass a ministry-administered competency assessment.

For the editor-in-chief position specifically, the ministry states that candidates must hold a bachelor’s degree in journalism, demonstrate at least three years of reporting and writing experience, and receive a letter of recognition from the organization employing them.

Information Minister Neth Pheaktra said that those already working in the field will be recognized as content creators but should formalize their status.

“Those who are already doing the work can simply register with the ministry to obtain certification,” Pheaktra said, noting that newcomers to the profession will be most affected by the new standards.

Ministry spokesperson Tep Asnarith said the directive applies broadly to anyone who intends to work in journalism or media, traditional, digital, or audiovisual.

“The goal is to strengthen order within the media space, improve safety, and ensure high-quality production. These are priorities shared by all stakeholders,” Asnarith said.

He added that the rules take immediate effect.

“This is mandatory mainly for those who want to enter the profession,” he said. “Those already working as journalists or content creators should not be concerned. They can be certified based on experience or equivalent qualifications and continue their work.”

Reactions to the new rules have been mixed. Supporters say they could raise long-needed standards, while critics argue the requirements are disconnected from Cambodia’s media realities.

Unrealistic Expectations Over Degrees

Ky Soklim, senior journalist and co-founder of Thmey Thmey Media, said academic training is important but warned against rigid interpretations.

“It’s important for media practitioners to have a bachelor’s degree in any field to strengthen the quality of journalism,” he said. “People can come from history, culture, international relations—many backgrounds are useful. Practical experience is equally important. Relying solely on academic credentials wouldn’t be practical for such a key role.”

He added that expecting content creators to have journalism experience is unrealistic, though higher education can help anchor their work.

“Creators can still discuss topics such as health, technology, or culture outside their specialization,” he said. “What matters is knowing the relevant laws, understanding responsibilities, and recognizing the limits of free speech.”

Veteran journalist May Titthara welcomed the ministry’s effort to set clearer standards but argued the new educational requirement is too narrow.

“Degrees matter because journalists need deeper knowledge and understanding than the general public,” Titthara said. “But an editor in chief shouldn’t be limited to a journalism degree. A bachelor’s degree with strong experience is enough.”

Titthara noted that editors in chief carry legal and ethical responsibility for everything a newsroom publishes, making higher qualifications reasonable. He said the same principle applies to influencers and content creators who publish news-like material.

Freelance journalist Tuy Engly, who has spent over a decade in the field, supported the push for clearer quality benchmarks.

“It’s good to have requirements that help maintain standards,” she said. Engly added that some journalists begin working without training, which can lead to misconduct. “Some misuse their freedom and act inappropriately. That harms the industry.”

But she stressed qualifications alone aren’t enough.

“We need ongoing monitoring to ensure journalists uphold professionalism,” she said. “Ultimately, responsibility lies with each of us. Commitment to ethics matters more than anything. If someone misuses their role, they shouldn’t represent the profession.”

Negative Impact On Struggling Newsrooms

Media advocates warn that the directive may create barriers rather than improvements.

Nop Vy, Executive Director of the Cambodian Journalists Alliance Association (CamboJA), said his organization is reviewing the directive to understand its implications.

“Some requirements go beyond the needs and capacities of certain media organizations,” Vy said. He pointed to the degree mandate for editors in chief and the requirement for full organizational structures, even for small or newly formed outlets, as especially concerning.

“These rules could negatively affect many newsrooms already struggling financially,” he said. “Small outlets that aren’t registered might shut down, and new initiatives may stop altogether if they cannot meet the requirements.”

Vy said Cambodia still relies heavily on grassroots media to expose issues such as social injustice, corruption, and weak governance.

“We still need these small organizations to fulfill their roles,” he said, noting that CamboJA will continue analyzing the directive and may submit formal recommendations after completing its review.